Full Breakdown
Malaysian Volunteer Firefighters Respond to Historic Flooding in Thailand
1/31/2026, 10:09:29 PM
Catastrophic Flooding in Hat Yai
On November 21, 2025, Tropical Cyclone Senyar struck Southeast Asia, unleashing unprecedented rainfall in Hat Yai, Thailand, resulting in the most severe flooding the city has experienced in 300 years. The floodwaters rose to the second floor of buildings, trapping a Malaysian family of 15 in a four-storey hotel for nearly a week. The family faced dire conditions, including food shortages and a language barrier that complicated their attempts to seek help. They were eventually rescued by a team led by Raymond Leong from the Sungai Petani Volunteer Fire Association.
Volunteer Firefighters Mobilize for Rescue
The Sungai Petani Volunteer Fire Association, part of a network of 489 registered volunteer fire teams in Malaysia, undertook its first international rescue mission in response to the disaster. Established under the 1988 Fire Services Act, these volunteer groups aim to provide emergency response in areas underserved by official fire services. Leong, who has been a volunteer firefighter for 18 years, coordinated the deployment of 17 boats and 20 off-road vehicles, successfully rescuing over 3,000 individuals, including both Thai locals and foreign tourists from countries such as China, Pakistan, Cambodia, and Singapore.
Official Recognition and Community Impact
The efforts of Leong and his team received commendations from Malaysia’s Fire and Rescue Department director-general Nor Hisham Mohammad. The mission not only highlighted the capabilities of volunteer firefighters but also led to increased support for these groups back home. For instance, the Seri Serdang Volunteer Fire Association in Selangor received a new fire engine donated by social media influencer Han Xiao Ai, following the visibility gained from the Hat Yai mission. This donation is expected to enhance their operational capacity significantly.
Criticism and Challenges Ahead
Despite the success of the rescue operations, the mission also faced challenges. Some critics argue that reliance on volunteer firefighters may detract from the need for a more robust official emergency response system. Additionally, as the People’s Party in Thailand prepares for upcoming elections, the political landscape remains fraught with uncertainty, which could impact future cooperation between volunteer groups and government agencies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am very thankful for their help,” — Md Arif Zaidullah, Family Member
- “We tried to enter Thailand on Nov 23. At that point, we did not even know if we would be allowed in with our rescue equipment,” — Raymond Leong, Sungai Petani Volunteer Fire Association
- “Seeing the joy on the faces of the people we rescue is something money cannot buy.” — Scott Pang, Seri Serdang Volunteer Fire Association
Conclusion
The response of Malaysian volunteer firefighters to the flooding in Hat Yai underscores the critical role of community-based emergency services in disaster situations. Their efforts not only saved lives but also fostered a sense of solidarity across borders, highlighting the importance of volunteerism in humanitarian crises. As these groups gain recognition, the challenge will be to integrate their capabilities into broader emergency management frameworks while addressing the criticisms they face.
