Hatyai has been inundated by torrential rain since last week, causing severe flooding and leaving many Malaysians stranded. While the crisis has prompted swift humanitarian response efforts from Malaysia, a disappointing display of behaviour by some evacuees has drawn public criticism.
In a 10-minute video shared by rescue team volunteer Mohd Amir Faizal, he voiced his frustration and embarrassment over the littering habits of some Malaysian flood victims. The footage showed women cleaning up scattered rubbish—plastic bottles, food containers and bags—left behind by evacuees.
“I told them several times to dispose of their rubbish in bins, but they simply ignored me. As a Malaysian, I’m so ashamed,” he said, visibly upset as he walked viewers through the mess left along the roadside and on benches.
He further alleged that he witnessed some Malaysians throwing rubbish out of a bus window while being transported back to Malaysia.
The video sparked widespread concern among netizens, many of whom echoed Mohd Amir’s disappointment. Some criticised the behaviour as damaging to the country’s reputation abroad, while one commenter suggested harshly that rescuers should “leave such people behind” to discourage irresponsible actions.
The incident has reignited discussions over civic responsibility and environmental awareness, with many calling for better education and accountability, even in crisis situations.
