Mohd Amir helping to cut a log obstructing motorists along the East-West Highway. — Bernama
THE image of a mother elephant mourning her calf killed by a lorry on the East-West Highway has brought into the spotlight the works of volunteers like Mohd Amir Faizal.
A member of the Sungai Petani Response Team volunteer squad, Mohd Amir was involved in relocating the female elephant.
For the past two years, the trader has been helping motorists using the highway.
Besides guiding elephants away during patrols, he also lends a hand during vehicle breakdowns, accidents and natural disasters along the 123km route connecting Jeli (Kelantan) and Gerik (Perak).
“The most unforgettable experience was last year when I helped rescue a woman involved in an accident at a bend along the highway.
“After pulling her out from the car, a male elephant suddenly emerged from the forest.
“Thankfully, we managed to get her into another vehicle and to safety,” he said when contacted by Bernama.
The father-of-four said he conducted patrols at least 15 times a month, depending on his availability.
Mohd Amir usually leaves from home in Bandar Seri Astana, Sungai Petani, Kedah, at around 10am, arriving at Batu Melintang in Jeli by about 1pm for the patrol, before heading back, a journey of about 400km.
“I don’t do this every day. I don’t have a fixed return time either. Sometimes I get home in the evening, other times it can be at midnight.
“As for transportation, I either ride my motorcycle or drive my car.
“I always carry essential tools such as a chainsaw, emergency kit, fire extinguisher, and jumper cables to help road users in need,” he said.
However, Mohd Amir’s efforts have not been free from criticism.
“I have read insulting and sarcastic comments on social media. Sometimes, it gets to me and I think about quitting.
“But I just can’t bring myself to stop. The thought of how difficult it is for motorists to get help during accidents, breakdowns or fuel shortages keeps me going,” said Mohd Amir.
Though he might seem accustomed to dealing with elephants, deep down, he still felt nervous.
“In my observation, flared ears and slightly raised tails are signs that an elephant may act aggressively,” he said, adding that the highway was also a known crossing point for other wild animals, including tigers, black panthers and sun bears.
