PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is deeply moved by the courage and perseverance of the volunteer teams that have helped evacuate thousands of Malaysians stranded in flood-hit Hat Yai.
He said more than 6,000 Malaysians who were stranded in southern Thailand have safely returned home since the rescue operation was launched on Sunday.
“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 assistance from the Thai government,” he said in a Facebook post yesterday.
“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.
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 all their assistance and coordination in managing UUM students and lecturers stranded in Hat Yai.
“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.
Separately, Anwar expressed his appreciation to his Thai counterpart Anutin Charnvirakul and the Thai government for their assistance and compassion in helping the stranded Malaysians.
“This prompt and thoughtful action reflects the enduring strength of our bilateral relations and the spirit of solidarity that we deeply value,” he said.
