{
  "id": 7501683,
  "title": "Police open to helping MOH operate mercy flights",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/15/police-open-to-helping-moh-operate-mercy-flights",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-15T07:34:03.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/09/1533298/police-open-helping-moh-operate-mercy-flights"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Police officials are willing to collaborate with the Health Ministry (MOH) in operating emergency flights to transport patients from remote areas. However, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail noted that the police currently face limitations due to a scarcity of air assets across the country. At present, the police possess only two fixed-wing aircraft and one helicopter in Sarawak. Despite the pressing urgency of the situation, Ismail expressed optimism about the possibility of fostering stronger partnerships with the ministry and other agencies in the future. Such collaboration could be achieved through the acquisition of new resources or other means, enabling the seamless execution of their roles and responsibilities. This statement was made during a press conference following the Senior Police Officer Rank Insignia Presentation and Handover of Duties Ceremony at the Kuala Lumpur Police Training Centre (Pulapol). It was earlier reported that four government agencies would assist MOH in conducting mercy flights to ensure continuous healthcare services for residents in remote locations. The initial mercy flight services will be provided temporarily until the investigation into the Flying Doctor Service (FDS) helicopter crash in Miri, Sarawak, which occurred on September 8th and resulted in a fire, is concluded. Khalid Ismail conveyed his condolences to the victims' families and mentioned that the police have recorded statements from 20 witnesses so far, with additional statements to be recorded before the investigation papers are finalized. Khalid also revealed that the police were finalizing their investigation into a report filed by Negri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim, who alleged coercion in signing the Proclamation Instrument to remove the 11th Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan. Khalid emphasized the sensitive nature of the matter, necessitating a comprehensive examination encompassing both the police investigation and the customs and traditions of Negri Sembilan. He mentioned that the investigation papers were being finalized and may require further action, along with input from the Attorney General's Chambers and other relevant parties. It is worth noting that the 11th Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negri Sembilan had signed the document before filing a police report on September 8th to enable authorities to initiate an investigation into the matter.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: The police are open to helping the Health Ministry (MOH) operate mercy flights to transport patients requiring emergency treatment from remote areas.",
  "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."
}