Sarawak State Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin announced that the Sarawak government will collaborate with relevant aviation authorities to assess whether additional safety measures are necessary following the fatal helicopter crash at Long Lellang involving Flying Doctor Service (FDS). The incident resulted in the death of all five onboard, including four health personnel. The minister emphasized that the investigation will be conducted professionally, relying on findings from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) and other agencies.
He highlighted that safety regulations currently govern aviation operations and any changes will require proper approval. Lee urged the public to refrain from speculation and to wait for the official investigation results. The authorities’ immediate focus has been on assisting the victims’ families and ensuring swift recovery procedures. The FDS service remains vital for remote communities lacking healthcare access, and its operation at Long Lellang airport will be subject to approval after the investigation.
The crash site was near the end of the Long Lellang STOLport runway. The government will work with CAAM and airport officials to review safety protocols and ensure continued safe operations in the interior regions of Sarawak.
