M’sian Volunteers in Batang Kali Rescue Mission to Search For His Family Members, Finds Their Bodies

As the search for the final victim of the Batang Kali tragedy continues, a number of heartbreaking stories has made headlines in regards to the victims as well as the rescue team.

Recently, the Angkatan Pertahanan Awam Negeri Selangor (Selangor Civil Defence Team) took to Facebook to share the heartbreaking story of Sergeant (PA) Melvin Chew, one of the officers participating in the rescue mission.

The 59-year-old sergeant had volunteered on the second day of the landslide to find his family members.

In their post they explained that Chew was initially shocked to know about the considerable number of victims involved and was even more horrified when he learnt that some of them were his own relatives from Malacca.

As an APM rescuer himself, he determinedly signed up to assist the Klang District Civil Defense in the search operation with hopes of finding his family and the other victims.

He eventually found the bodies of all of his family members which made him feel both relieved and sad.

“Although I have received the closure I needed, I’d still continue to join the operation force in Batang Kali until the rescue mission ends.”

Chew thanked all agencies and officers who had given everything they had in this operation on behalf of his deceased relatives, and was appreciative of their efforts in recovering the missing victims.

Our deepest condolences goes to Melvin and the families of all the victims in the Batang Kali landslide. We hope that the final victim is found and returned to their loved ones.

Also read: Uncle Kentang Says Landslide Rescue Teams Are The Real Heroes Who Deserve More Respect