Sarawak crash: remembering the 5 who flew to help others

On September 8, a helicopter carrying five individuals crashed near Long Lellang in Sarawak, resulting in the tragic loss of all five - the pilot and medical staff who had embarked on a mission to bring healthcare to remote communities. Among the fallen heroes were Capt Zainol Afiq Bee Sham, Dr Ainul Baraah Kamaruddin, Alexson Adit Henry, Debra Moset, and Jessie Paya Jok.

Zainol, known for his friendly demeanor and easy smile, was a devoted father to two young children. As a pilot with years of experience flying into remote parts of Sarawak, he had a keen ability to land safely in challenging weather conditions. Zainol, who was also a skilled woodworker, had a passion for crafting furniture, carefully attending to the finish of each piece.

Dr Ainul Baraah Kamaruddin, from Kelantan, had been working in Miri for two years and aspired to pursue postgraduate studies at Universiti Sains Malaysia to become a specialist and return home. Her family had been supportive of her plans, as she never complained about travelling by helicopter into remote areas and approached her work with enthusiasm.

Alexson Adit Henry, a 31-year-old assistant medical officer, was still studying and had recently completed an advanced diploma. He had begun a Bachelor of Medical and Health Sciences programme and had a five-year-old daughter and a two-year-old son. Alexson's dedication to his healthcare career meant that he often had to put his own family time aside to reach others in distant communities.

Debra Moset, a 40-year-old nurse and mother of three, was remembered by colleagues for her meticulous and responsible nature. However, her family knew her as someone who enjoyed cooking and entertaining her family with delicacies like beef rendang and curry. Debra was also an avid lover of laughter, often bringing joy to both her clinic and family gatherings.

Jessie Paya Jok, affectionately known as Paya, was remembered by friends as gentle, cheerful, and deeply caring towards both friends and patients. Having known her since their nursing training in 2005, friends recall her kindness and humor, as well as her willingness to help others, even using her own money to assist a patient in need during her time working at Bario Health Clinic.