PETALING JAYA: Despite losing a boat, United Sikhs Malaysia pressed on with rescuing stranded Malaysians in Hat Yai.
Speaking to The Star from Hat Yai yesterday, United Sikhs president Sunil Shukvir Singh said the rescue boat hit a sharp object on Wednesday, causing it to capsize.
Fortunately, all passengers were wearing life jackets and were unharmed.
The volunteers secured a new boat the following day and continued their mission.
The ordeal did not end there.
Three volunteers were stranded overnight in a hotel, but their presence was a source of comfort for the remaining flood victims.
“They all felt secure knowing that our volunteers stayed the night,” Sunil said.
He described the dire conditions at the hotel: “All the toilets were clogged with no flushing system.
“It was stinking and very unpleasant. Conditions were extremely bad.”
From yesterday morning to evening, 13 buses transported Malaysians to the border.
“Many also used private vans. I estimate close to 1,000 people left Hat Yai. It was a very successful operation to see everyone safe and happy.
“Except for one area, floodwaters have receded in most parts.
“Once the water recedes there, four-wheel drives and army trucks can reach them.
“We may not get them out of the country immediately, but at least they’ll have food and clean water,” he said.
Sunil also noted a positive sign in the weather.
“Today we have sunshine, though clouds remain. We are still cautious about a potential third wave of flooding,” he said.
Sunil revealed that some victims survived by collecting rainwater and he praised the additional help from volunteers and the Thai army yesterday.
United Sikhs has been on the ground since Sunday, rescuing hundreds of stranded Malaysians from the floods.
