The search for the remaining victims of the Batang Kali landslide continues despite the weather. At the time of writing, 30 victims have been confirmed dead, while 3 more victims have yet to be found.
One of the victims found yesterday (December 21) has been identified by PDRM as Eric Wong Chai Chong, or fondly known as Uncle Eric.
Dogs are often labeled as men’s best friends, and 3 dogs of the late Uncle Eric were there with him until his very last breath. Unfortunately, it cost the dogs their lives too.
Uncle Eric’s dead body was found yesterday, and it was heartbreaking for the rescue team to see that one of his dogs had died in his arms.
Another dog was found just beside Uncle Eric, while the 3rd dog has yet to be found. PDRM also confirmed that Uncle Eric’s body has been retrieved by his family members this morning (December 22) at Sungai Buloh hospital, reported Utusan.
In the meantime, Harian Metro reported that Uncle Eric was fondly known as an animal lover among his friends. Just this morning, the Facebook page of the Malaysia Animal Association (MAA) posted an image as a tribute to the late Uncle Eric. The organisation also sent its condolences to Uncle Eric.
“Rest in peace, Uncle Eric. May God give you and your lovely dogs rest, and reward you with a lifetime of happiness. Be together in heaven peacefully.”
In the Facebook post, MAA also said that Uncle Eric and his dogs are a symbol of loyalty between animals and humans.
At the time being, the search for Uncle Eric’s 3rd dog and the remaining victims continues. Meanwhile, words cannot express how thankful we are for the efforts and hard work of the rescue team who have been working since the day of the landslide.
Our thoughts and prayers go to the family members of the victims.
