Virtual Booth

Flooding remains one of the most critical natural disasters in Malaysia, especially during the monsoon season. Vulnerable individuals—such as the elderly, the disabled, and patients with chronic illnesses—face greater risks due to limited mobility and reliance on special care. In emergencies, they often cannot evacuate quickly or safely. Conventional beds are not built for wet or submerged conditions, leading to health risks such as hypothermia, infections, and even death.

The key problem is the lack of emergency equipment tailored for immobile patients during floods. Flood-prone residential areas often lack access to specialized tools that ensure safety and comfort in such situations. While inflatable rescue devices exist, most are not designed to serve as beds for prolonged use. Traditional beds fail in submerged environments, increasing danger for those who rely on them.

To better understand the issue, we conducted field observations on 28 and 29 January 2025 at three flood-prone areas in Sabah: Kota Belud, Kampung Popok (Kota Marudu), and Kolopis Penampang. The focus was on senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. Many relied on wheelchairs or walking aids, which were easily swept away by floodwaters. Several were exposed to cold water without access to essential medical items, facing risks of hypothermia and infection.

From 31 January to 3 February 2025, interviews were conducted through WhatsApp with 20-year-old science students from flood-affected areas. They shared stories of family members struggling during floods. One student spoke of a sick grandmother who had to be carried without proper support. Another mentioned an injured relative who couldn’t move without medical aid. A common concern across the interviews was the absence of floating or movable beds for those with mobility challenges.

Our target users are high-risk individuals dependent on others for mobility, including elderly residents, disabled persons, and patients with chronic illnesses. These individuals often live in low-lying areas with poor infrastructure and delayed access to emergency aid. Most are bedridden and require constant care, making evacuation nearly impossible without risking their well-being.

To address this, we developed a flood-resistant emergency bed prototype focused on buoyancy, comfort, and durability. The design process used Shapr3D, a professional 3D modeling software. With Shapr3D, we created a digital model of the product, adjusted dimensions, simulated components, and evaluated its usability before building the physical prototype. The design process lasted several weeks, allowing for multiple revisions based on team feedback.

The final product, called the Lifeline Lounger, is an inflatable, waterproof emergency bed designed for use during flood disasters. Constructed from Hypalon—a material used in rescue boats—it offers strong resistance to chemicals, UV rays, and extreme temperatures. The lounger features a built-in headrest, a non-slip surface, and adjustable straps for user safety. It is foldable, lightweight, and easy to inflate using a manual or electric pump.

The Lifeline Lounger keeps patients elevated above contaminated floodwaters, providing comfort and protection while awaiting assistance or transport. We believe this product can help reduce risks and improve flood preparedness, especially for vulnerable groups. Our goal is to offer a practical, inclusive solution that prioritizes safety, dignity, and resilience in disaster-prone areas. Through this innovation, we hope to contribute to safer, more prepared communities in Malaysia and beyond.