Malaysia Airlines said Monday in a statement that it was offering a financial assistance of $5, 000 to the families of each passenger on MH17, in a bid to help the immediate families of the passengers with their economic needs.

"Funds have already been made available for this purpose. Citibank has supported Malaysia Airlines with the logistical arrangements for the fund transfer," it said, adding that this financial assistance would not be offset against the final compensation nor affect the families'legal rights to claim.

Meanwhile, Malaysia Airlines said it would be supporting the families during these trying times and will be providing them with hotel accommodation, meals, and transport assistance.

The airline also said it had assigned caregivers, namely trained Malaysia Airlines' staff, for each family member to provide emotional support and basic needs. "To date, 79 caregivers and other support staff are in Amsterdam, whilst 43 are based in Kuala Lumpur."

The company said it would be organizing a multi-faith prayer session for both staff and the general public.