THE prompt response by the Sungai Ara Community Ambulance Society and the availability of their Rapid Response Motorcycle played a crucial role in saving a toddler’s life yesterday evening (Dec 20) in Sungai Ara.
Recounting the incident, the society’s secretary and operations manager Raminder Singh shared that they received a distress call through the 999 Care Integration System around 6.30pm.
“We were informed that a toddler was in critical condition and not breathing,” he explained.
“At the time, no one was present at the Sungai Ara Community Ambulance Society centre, and I had just returned home from work.
“Thankfully, one of our dedicated volunteers immediately responded to the emergency and rushed to the toddler’s house. I dropped everything and headed there as well,” he said.
Leveraging the Rapid Response Motorcycle, the team was able to navigate through traffic congestion and provide urgent medical assistance while waiting for the ambulance to arrive.
“The ambulance faced delays due to heavy traffic, but our quick response on the motorcycle allowed us to administer the necessary care in time,” Raminder added.
He said the availability of an AED saved the toddler’s life.
“We used the AED and performed the CPR while waiting for the ambulance to arrive.
“Earlier yesterday (Dec 20), we received the AED from Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society Malaysia (Penang), and we used it to save the toddler in the evening,” he said.
Raminder was, however, unable to confirm the toddler’s condition after he was sent to the Penang Hospital for treatment.
He emphasised the critical importance of having AEDs readily available, along with the knowledge and skills to operate them and perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
“During emergencies like this, every minute is critical. The Rapid Response Motorcycle, equipped with an AED, oxygen tank, blood pressure and glucose monitors, and basic medical supplies, plays a vital role in delivering life-saving support while waiting for the ambulance to arrive.
“It is also highly effective in reaching areas with off-road terrain, where ambulances may have difficulty accessing,” Raminder said when contacted today.
He shared that the society is equipped with a Rapid Response Motorcycle and two ambulances, all fitted with AEDs.
“In addition, we have three ‘mobile’ AEDs that our volunteers take home, allowing them to respond to emergencies swiftly.
“We also have an AED stationed at our centre in Sungai Ara,” he added.
Raminder hoped that more corporate companies and the private sector would show their support to the community-based organisation.
Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society Malaysia (Penang) commisioner Datuk Khoo Boo Leong said Tzu Chi understands the vital role first responders play in providing CPR and first aid during medical emergencies.
“As part of our commitment, we are proud to donate an AED for the Sungai Ara Community Ambulance.
“An AED can be the difference between life and death in critical situations,” Khoo said, thanking the volunteers for their dedication to saving lives.
He added that Tzu Chi also donated an AED each to the transit home in Jalan CY Choy on July 25, and the Penang contingent police headquarters on Oct 4.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix courtesy of contributors