As severe floods continue to overwhelm Hatyai, Thailand, two Malaysians risked their lives by wading through chest-deep waters for 8 kilometres to obtain urgently needed medication for elderly travellers trapped in their hotel.
According to Sin Chew Daily, Baharim, the General Manager of Cuti-Cuti Langkawi Sdn Bhd, revealed that he and a friend made the dangerous journey after elderly members of their tour group ran out of essential medication and could not leave the flooded Paradise Hotel, where more than a hundred Malaysians have been stranded for nearly a week.
A desperate journey through rising waters
We walked through floodwaters that reached our chest. It was extremely difficult to move,” Baharim said when recounting the ordeal.
Midway through their journey, a Royal Thai Army (RTA) soldier spotted them and offered help.
The soldier escorted them safely to Hatyai Hospital, assisted in obtaining the necessary medication, and later transported them to the Malaysia–Thailand Border Coordination Office.
Over 100 Malaysians still trapped after six days
According to Baharim, 103 Malaysian citizens are currently stranded at Paradise Hotel, including 23 men, 50 women, and 30 senior citizens.
The hotel has now entered its sixth day without electricity or clean water supply.
Despite the difficult conditions, Baharim expressed deep gratitude for the hotel management.
The hotel has been very kind. They are offering free accommodation and providing one meal a day for everyone,” he said.
Communication breakdown hindering rescue efforts
Compounding the crisis is the unstable communication network in the disaster-hit area. Many stranded tourists have been unable to place emergency calls or update their families.
Baharim is now appealing for assistance from Malaysian authorities, particularly the military, to help evacuate the elderly and other stranded travellers.
He emphasised that with worsening conditions, time is running out for those still stuck inside the hotel.
