Kelantan MB: Doctor killed in Sarawak helicopter crash dedicated to serving rural communities

Kota Bharu, Malaysia - The Kelantan government has mourned the loss of Dr Ainul Baraah Kamarudin, a dedicated medical professional who lost her life while serving rural communities in Sarawak through the Flying Doctor Service (FDS). Kelantan's Chief Minister, Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud, expressed deep sorrow over her untimely death, stating that her tireless work and commitment to providing medical aid to those in need was a great loss to the state.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) announced that a BO-105 helicopter, en route to perform an FDS operation, crashed near Long Lellang Short Runway Airport in Ulu Baram, about 929 kilometers from Kuching, Sarawak. The helicopter, operated by a pilot, carried a medical officer, an assistant medical officer (PPP), and two nurses who were fulfilling their official duties at the time of the tragic incident.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed that all five individuals aboard the helicopter - Dr Ainul Baraah Kamarudin, Captain Zainol Afriq, assistant medical officer Alexson Adit, and nurses Debra Moset and Jessie Paya - were killed in the crash, which occurred around 3.40 pm. Miri Division Resident and chairman of the Miri Division Disaster Management Committee, Galong Luang, also confirmed the fatalities.

Dr Ainul Baraah was born in Kota Bharu and had served Kelantan and Sarawak through the FDS, bringing much-needed medical treatment and hope to remote areas. Her passing is mourned by the Kelantan government, who extend their condolences to her family, praying for her acceptance into the righteous realm.