KUALA LUMPUR: A mother, who is not linked to any of the victims in the Batang Kali landslide, travelled to the makeshift memorial at SJK(C) Mun Choong to place 12 origami birds, which she says represent the souls of the lives lost in the tragedy.
Asking to remain anonymous, she told FMT that she made the origami birds as a symbol of the souls finding peace.
“As a mother, hearing that children have perished in this incident is heartbreaking and hits close to home. It can happen to any of us,” she said, her voice quivering. “I may not know anyone personally, but this is the least I could do to pay my respects.”
About 20 teachers from Mun Choong and their family members had camped at Father’s Organic Farm, where the landslide took place.
The air was solemn at the primary school as mourners trickled in to place flowers at the school’s main entrance.
Ten-year-old Chong Kai Lun, accompanied by his mother, placed a bouquet of flowers for his Year 3 moral studies teacher and the canteen “uncle”.
“I’m sad to have lost them and also worried about the others still missing,” he said. “I hope they find the rest of them soon.”
Two pupils aged 11, Ng Shi Qing and T Varishh, were seen standing with their mothers in a moment of silence for the teacher and friends they had lost. They said they were in disbelief and devastated by the news.
“I’m very sad to have lost my friends and teacher,” said Ng, morosely. “I hope they rest in peace,” said Varishh.
The Batang Kali landslide, which occurred early Friday morning, has so far claimed 24 lives. A total of 61 people survived the landslide, which took place at three campsites at 2am.
Search and rescue operations continue for nine people who are still unaccounted for. - FMT
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