PUTRAJAYA: There is no obstacle for Malaysia to be part of the criminal investigation team for the MH17 incident, said Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

The Transport Minister said Malaysia had expressed its stand very clearly that it must be part of the criminal investigation team and has informed Dutch authorities of its intention.

"We are currently part of the technical investigation team. As for the criminal investigation team, we will be included.

"We have informed the Dutch, who are the lead investigators and in charge of appointing members of the team," Liow told reporters after attending the launching of the Karnival Genexter here on Sunday.

It was reported that Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte during his visit here on Wednesday had said it was logical for Malaysia to join the criminal investigation team on the MH17 incident.

While Ukraine, Australia and Belgium are part of the core probe team, Malaysia is currently waiting for a decision on its request to join in.

Attorney-General Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail had reportedly said only the Netherlands had openly voiced its support for Malaysia to be roped in, but other countries have to give their green light as well.

On July 17, Flight MH17 crashed in eastern Ukraine after being allegedly shot down.

A total of 298 people on board, including 43 Malaysians, perished in the tragedy.