Dzulkefly: Rescue teams begin evacuation of Long Lellang helicopter crash victims

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 9 — Rescue teams initiated evacuation efforts for victims of the helicopter crash in Long Lellang, Sarawak, commencing operations at 7.30 am on the day, announced Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad. The operation involved the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM). Hospitals in Miri were fully prepared to receive the rescued victims upon arrival.

Dzulkefly briefed a press conference alongside Health director-general Datuk Dr Mahathar Abd Wahab and Deputy Health director-general (Public Health) Dr Ismuni Bohari. The Ministry of Health (MOH) typically considers technical and aviation safety inputs from authorities before deciding on the utilization of helicopter assets for First District Services (FDS).

Dr Mahathar confirmed that the deceased healthcare personnel were performing routine FDS tasks during the incident. Regarding flight approval for FDS operations, Dr Mahathar emphasized compliance with safety procedures by relevant agencies, adding that the MOH does not have jurisdiction over such approvals. FDS operations encompass both routine services and emergency medevac services, with the latter continuing as needed based on urgent patient transports and after obtaining flight approval considering safety assessments and weather conditions.

The crash resulted in the death of a pilot and four MOH personnel when their BO-105 flying doctor services helicopter crashed near the Long Lellang STOLport in Ulu Baram, Sarawak, yesterday.