PETALING JAYA: A couple who were among the 61 survivors of the tragic Batang Kali landslide met some of their rescuers from the Civil Defence Force (APM) to express their gratitude for saving them as well as other victims.
Although both of them were among the earliest survivors to be rescued, their only child passed away in the tragedy.
In a Facebook post on Monday (Jan 2), Selangor APM said the couple met Capt (PA) Hilmi Husman, Junior Lieutenant (PA) Mohammad Amin Rosdi and Junior Staff (PA) Mohd Firdaus Abd Samad.
The trio, who are from the Hulu Selangor District APM, were among the first rescuers to arrive at the location.
“Although both of them lost their child in the incident, they appreciated the services of all the rescuers who worked together to help save all the victims.
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“During the meeting, the husband and wife expressed their grief over the loss of their only child, and even shared a video recording of the birthday of their beloved child.
“The male victim told the officers that he was the first to call the emergency line and shared about the distress moment when he saw his wife and child trapped in the car.
“At that time, he could only watch from afar while rescuers tried to save his wife and child,” the post read.
The post also mentioned that the man’s wife asked for her child to be rescued before her but the rescuers did not have the heart to tell her that her son had taken his last breath at that time until the situation was stable.
“The couple expressed their gratitude to all the rescuers. Despite having lost their child, they showed strength in continuing with their lives together.
“They also hope for more rescuers in the world who can help anyone who experiences a disaster or accident, and even be able to provide early treatment to save lives.”
Meanwhile, Capt (PA) Hilmi described the meeting as “a priceless honour”, adding that he had never expected anything in return throughout his career as a civil defence officer.
On Dec 16, the landslide tragedy, which occurred at the Father's Organic Farm campsite in Gohtong Jaya, Batang Kali, had claimed 31 lives. Another 61 survived the ordeal.
