Malaysian volunteer rescuers on the frontlines of the devastating Hatyai floods say they are racing against time as desperate calls for help continue to pour in from stranded Malaysians across the Thai border city.
Sungai Petani Volunteer Fire Brigade chairman Raymond Leong went live in an emotional broadcast earlier today, tearfully urging the Malaysian Government to expedite official rescue operations.
We will not retreat until every Malaysian is brought home,” he vowed.
He also admitted that the rescue mission has placed immense pressure on him and his team, as it feels like every stranded Malaysian is relying on them for help.
I’m sorry I can’t respond to every rescue call. I hope everyone understands,” he said.
Around 1000 Malaysians still stranded
According to Sin Chew Daily, so far 1,006 Malaysians have been successfully evacuated with the help of Malaysian volunteer rescue teams. Hundreds more remain stranded as the disaster persists.
Raymond said the team entered the disaster-hit areas early this morning with a fleet of eight rescue boats, five water jet skis, and several trucks and lorries loaded with food, supplies, and emergency equipment.
With water levels receding slightly in parts of Hatyai, rescuers are racing to deliver aid and evacuate high-risk groups, such as the elderly, children, and women.
He clarified that official records show around 1,000 Malaysians still stranded—not several thousand, as widely shared online.
Raymond also appealed to the public not to overwhelm their hotline.
Please do not make non-emergency calls. It ties up our lines and slows down our work.”
Teams refuse to stop
The rescue effort has taken a heavy toll on the volunteers.
Raymond revealed that four rescue phones were destroyed after being submerged during operations. Despite this and other setbacks, such as damaged equipment and dangerous currents, the team has refused to stand down.
Even with phones destroyed and equipment failing, we will not withdraw as long as Malaysians are still trapped,” he said.
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