{
  "id": 18136779,
  "title": "Nga: Govt saves RM3bil by leasing 28 helicopters",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/04/nga-govt-saves-rm3bil-by-leasing-28-helicopters",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-04T14:25:08.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/11/1570959/nga-govt-saves-rm3bil-leasing-28-helicopters"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Malaysian government has managed to save RM3 billion by leasing 28 helicopters for use by various government agencies, Minister Nga Kor Ming announced at the launch of Fire and Rescue Department AW139 helicopter operations. This leasing arrangement, which spans 15 years, shifted maintenance responsibilities to the leasing company. Previously, the government had to purchase helicopters outright. The two AW139 helicopters added to the Fire and Rescue Department's fleet, which will enhance its capabilities in search and rescue operations, forest firefighting, and logistical aid delivery. Before the expansion, the department operated eight helicopters across three air bases in Penang, Selangor, and Sarawak. The department also employs 26 pilots, including qualified flight instructors for the AW109 and AW139 helicopters. Nga emphasized the importance of aviation safety and the need to strengthen cooperation between agencies and the aviation industry for technology development, training, and expertise building.",
  "summary": "SUBANG: The government has saved RM3 billion through a leasing arrangement for 28 helicopters for use by various government agencies, including two AW139 units that have expanded the Fire and Rescue Department's fleet to 10 helicopters.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}