LANGKAWI: In a first-of-its-kind community effort, two boats have been made available to help islanders facing urgent needs for travel to the mainland.
Initiated by Persatuan Anak Muda Madani chairman Datuk Zuraidi Rahim, the free round-the-clock service aims to ease the burden of families needing urgent medical care from hospitals on the mainland.
Zuraidi said the idea came from the increasing number of islanders struggling to secure fast and affordable transport during emergencies.
Hiring a private boat or fishermen’s vessel could cost up to RM2,500, he said, making it unaffordable for many.
“When emergencies happen, time is everything, and reaching the mainland can be a major challenge,” he told The Star over the phone.
Both boats are stationed at the Tanjung Rhu jetty to allow quick response to calls from different parts of the island.
The first vessel, dubbed the Water Ambulance, is equipped with stretchers and space for two patients, along with room for family members and accompanying hospital staff.
It is designed for stability even during rough sea conditions and operates in coordination with medical personnel.
The second vessel is fitted with a covered deck to transport the deceased, providing space for accompanying relatives to travel with dignity and privacy.
Families of the deceased are required to obtain a hospital letter to facilitate the transfer, while patients using the service for medical treatment must receive doctor’s approval to ensure smooth coordination between the medical teams.
Zuraidi said both boats will operate in strict compliance with maritime safety regulations and that monthly maintenance costs are expected to range between RM10,000 and RM15,000.
“This comes from a sincere desire to help. Emergencies don’t wait and no one should suffer just because they live on an island,” he said.
Residents have welcomed the move, with waiter Mohd Shazwan Othman, 30, saying this community initiative makes a real difference for those in distress late at night.
“It’s really good because private boats are expensive, especially at night,” he said.
Another resident, Lee Chee Han, 65, said the service brings peace of mind.
“Knowing that help is available anytime without worrying about cost makes a big difference.
“It shows the community still looks after its own.”
