Bangkok: As floods continue to inundate southern Thailand, leaving thousands of Malaysians stranded in Hat Yai and nearby areas, Malaysia has stepped up its emergency assistance in close coordination with Thai authorities. Malaysia's Ambassador to Thailand, Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah, stated that the Malaysian Embassy in Bangkok and the Consulate General in Songkhla are working closely with Thai authorities to ensure that assistance reaches Malaysians currently sheltering in their hotels. He reported that about 1,000 Malaysians remain stranded in Hat Yai, while another 500 are stuck in other parts of the southern provinces.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah emphasized that, together with the Thai authorities, efforts are being made tirelessly to ensure that assistance, including food, medicine, and other necessities, reaches the flood victims. He urged Malaysians not to panic and to stay updated on rescue operations for timely evacuation to safer areas by local authorities when necessary.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Consul-General in Songkhla, Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi, reported that as of Sunday, approximately 2,500 Malaysians have been evacuated from Hat Yai with the help of local authorities. He noted that around 500 of them have been sent to Hat Yai Airport and the bus terminal, while others are either taking shelter at temporary evacuation centers or returning to Malaysia.
Ahmad Fahmi highlighted that water levels in Hat Yai continue to rise following heavy rainfall since last night, but authorities are doing their utmost to deliver assistance. He mentioned that there are about 18 temporary evacuation centers operating in Hat Yai and Songkhla.
In other developments, Thai local media reported that Songkhla Governor Rattasat Chidchu had declared the province a disaster zone and ordered the urgent evacuation of all residents. He instructed military units, civilian agencies, local administrations, and rescue foundations to immediately move into affected areas to provide assistance, particularly to vulnerable groups.