PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is deeply moved by the courage and perseverance of the volunteer team that has helped evacuate thousands of Malaysians stranded by the Hat Yai floods.
He said more than 6,000 Malaysians stranded by the flood disaster in Thailand have safely returned home since the rescue operation began on Sunday (Nov 23).
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“This mission was largely supported by nearly 20 Malaysian volunteer organisations mobilised in cooperation with Wisma Putra, including 13 volunteer fire-rescue teams, as well as with the assistance from the Thai Government,” he said in a Facebook post on Thursday(Nov 27).
“I am deeply moved by the courage and perseverance of our volunteer teams who braved the floods and faced risks in order to rescue fellow Malaysians. My highest appreciation and salute to our heroes,” he added.
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He also extended his gratitude to Wisma Putra, the Embassy of Malaysia in Thailand, the Consulate General of Malaysia in Songkhla, the Thai authorities, local rescue teams and the management of Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) for their assistance and coordination in managing the students and lecturers from the university who were also stranded in Hat Yai.
He said the hard work and commitment of all parties in ensuring their safety reflect a profound sense of compassion, concern and solidarity, regardless of religion, race or background.
“I ask that we continue to pray that every step taken by our volunteers and all our teams will be eased as they continue the mission to bring home Malaysians who are still stranded in Thailand. The government, through Wisma Putra, will continue to closely monitor the situation and extend assistance as quickly as possible,” he said.
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The flood in the Southern Thailand town has affected millions, including thousands of Malaysians who were stranded without food, water and electricity for days.
Malaysian volunteers, such as the Persatuan Bomba Sukarelawan and the United Sikhs, have been working on the ground to rescue thousands of Malaysians since Sunday.
