UNITED SIKHS Step Up 'Full Force' Rescue Of Stranded Malaysians In Hat Yai

ALOR SETAR, Nov 27 (Bernama) -- UNITED SIKHS Malaysia, among the earliest volunteer groups assisting Malaysians stranded by severe floods in Hat Yai, Thailand, is deploying a ‘full force’ operation today to evacuate as many victims as possible.

President Sunil Shukvir Singh said the intensified effort follows a temporary slowdown in rescue operations yesterday due to dangerously high floodwaters, estimated at between 10 and 14 feet.

He said since Sunday until last night, an estimated more than 1,000 people have been rescued and sent to Danok for the next process before returning to Malaysia, with other agencies such as the volunteer fire brigade from Sungai Petani also assisting.

“There were many SOS messages sent to us asking for help. Yesterday, we managed to rescue children, pregnant women and senior citizens. We prioritise these groups because their needs are more urgent,” he told Bernama when contacted today.

He said the team initially deployed only two boats, but today an additional boat and two four-wheel-drive vehicles will be brought in to support the expanded operation.

“Today we can conduct a full operation as the rain has eased and the water level has receded, allowing us to bring in four-wheel drives. Our focus will be on several hotels where Malaysians are still trapped.

“We will rescue them one by one, but what we have seen during these operations is heartbreaking. Many victims are hungry and dehydrated,” said Sunil.

He added that during every evacuation effort, the team distributes food and drinks such as nasi lemak, bread, biscuits and milk to victims before moving them to safety.

Sunil said that despite days of continuous work, all UNITED SIKHS volunteers remain in good health, although exhausted from the non-stop operation.

“Besides fatigue, they are also anxious because of the pressure to ensure all Malaysians still in Hat Yai can be rescued quickly. However, we are grateful that no serious incidents have occurred so far and everyone is safe,” he said.

-- BERNAMA