Residents in the Malaysian city of Sibu recently witnessed an unusual emergency rescue that required careful coordination and teamwork. Emergency responders were called to assist a 33-year-old man, Sia Chie Herng, whose health condition had suddenly worsened, leaving him unable to move from his home.
According to reports, the situation had gradually developed over time. Herng had spent many years living a largely sedentary lifestyle while frequently eating large meals. Friends and family said that one of his favorite foods was instant noodles, which he reportedly consumed in significant quantities every day.
For nearly a decade, eating became a central part of his daily routine. People close to him explained that some days he would eat as many as 20 to 30 bowls of noodles, often with added meat and other calorie-rich foods. Afterward, he sometimes finished his meals with desserts like ice cream and milkshakes.
Despite gaining considerable weight over the years, Herng was still able to move slowly around his home with the help of a walking frame. His mother later explained that although daily activities were difficult, he could still manage basic movement for a long time.
However, in the days before the emergency call, his condition began to change.
Health Problems Develop
Family members noticed swelling developing in his legs, and he began feeling unusually weak. Soon afterward, he started experiencing discomfort in his chest and had trouble standing.
Within a short period of time, his condition worsened significantly. Eventually, Herng was unable to leave his bed or move without help. For four days, he remained in the same spot in the living room while his family monitored his condition.
Concerned about his health, relatives contacted emergency services for assistance.
Rescue Teams Face a Difficult Challenge
When firefighters from the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department arrived at the home, they quickly realized that transporting the patient would require a different approach than usual.
Herng’s weight was estimated to be around 320 kilograms, which made it impossible to move him safely using standard ambulance equipment.
Assistant director of operations Farhan Sufyan Borhan later explained that the emergency team arrived about an hour after receiving the call and found Herng lying in the living room, unable to move.
Because a regular ambulance could not accommodate him safely, responders decided to bring in a larger vehicle.
A Special Transport Plan
A five-tonne rescue lorry from the department’s fleet was dispatched to the scene to assist with the operation. The rescue team also prepared a large wooden board reinforced with heavy cloth to create a makeshift stretcher strong enough to support his weight.
Moving him required patience and teamwork.
Around twenty rescuers worked together to carefully position the board beneath Herng before lifting him slowly and steadily. The team communicated constantly during the process to ensure the safety of both the patient and the responders.
Officials later explained that situations involving patients of this size are rare and require special planning and coordination.
Transport to the Hospital
The effort to move Herng from the house to the rescue vehicle took more than 30 minutes. Step by step, the team carried the board outside and carefully placed it in the back of the lorry.
Shortly after 1 p.m., the vehicle arrived at the hospital, where medical staff were waiting to receive him.
Doctors immediately began evaluating his condition. Early assessments suggested that the severe swelling in his legs may have contributed to his sudden inability to move. Medical teams continued monitoring his health and conducting tests to better understand the underlying issues.
Family and Friends Share Their Support
Herng’s mother later spoke about how quickly the situation had escalated. She explained that although he had struggled with mobility before, he had still been able to walk slowly with a frame until the swelling became severe.
As his strength declined, he eventually lost the ability to stand or move on his own.
Friends also expressed concern and support. One of his acquaintances described him as a friendly person who enjoyed watching sports and movies at home. He also said that Herng had always had a strong love for food, especially noodles.
Despite the challenges surrounding the rescue, those close to him remain hopeful that hospital treatment will help him recover and improve his health.
A Reminder of the Importance of Teamwork
For the emergency responders involved, the incident highlighted how unpredictable rescue situations can be. Each emergency requires different solutions, and in this case the coordinated efforts of firefighters and medical staff made it possible to transport the patient safely.
As doctors continue to monitor Herng’s condition, family members and friends are hoping that this difficult moment will mark the beginning of a path toward better health and recovery.
