RESCUE TEAMS FACE UNEXPECTED CHALLENGES EVACUATING MALAYSIANS FROM FLOOD-HIT HATYAI

ALOR SETAR, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- Volunteer teams attempting to rescue stranded Malaysians in flood-affected Hatyai encountered unlikely challenges, including some reluctant to leave as they wanted to wait for family members and some not willing to leave their luggage behind.

Sungai Petani Volunteer Firefighter Team chairman Leong Beng Tat said the actions of a few of these victims hindered the smooth execution of efforts to evacuate Malaysians from the city.

"Due to the limited space on the boats and the main principle of saving lives, we cannot transport large amounts of luggage," he said when contacted today.

He said as of noon today, a total of 1,006 Malaysians have been rescued and evacuated from the city with the help of Malaysian volunteer teams.

Leong added that floodwaters in Hatyai began to recede early this morning, enabling his team to reach affected areas with eight rescue boats and several lorries laden with relief supplies.

He said the volunteer team members are working tirelessly to ensure the safe return of all Malaysians.

"The receding water levels in several areas have enabled the volunteer teams to deliver necessities and evacuate Malaysians, especially senior citizens, women and children," he said.

Leong also urged the public not to make non-urgent calls to the volunteer teams to avoid disrupting operations.

"Four of the operation team's mobile phones were damaged after being submerged in water, but the team continues to work non-stop despite the challenging conditions," he said.

-- BERNAMA