Sarawak: Allegations that no senior health officials attended the funerals of members of the Flying Doctors Service (FDS) killed in a crash in Sarawak are untrue and irresponsible, Health deputy director-general Dr Ismuni Bohari said. He added that he himself had visited the families of the crash victims in Miri and Kuching, and also paid his last respects to the victims.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Ismuni stated, "I myself was there, visiting the victims' families in Miri and Kuching on behalf of Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad and the ministry's senior leaders and paid my last respects to my beloved FDS colleagues." He further clarified that Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly, secretary-general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad, and the deputy secretary-general attended the funerals in Senawang while he represented them in Miri and Kuching.

Dr Ismuni emphasized that his presence was not only in an official capacity but also due to humanitarian concern and his close ties with the FDS team, having previously been a part of it. He also noted his role as a Sarawak native and National Public Health Programme director in his decision to attend.

He expressed a hope for continued respect and support for the families affected by the tragedy, stating, "May we continue to honour those who have passed away and stand together in providing support and strength to the bereaved families."

The controversy arose after a news portal suggested that the Health Minister should have personally attended the funerals instead of being at a conference in the capital. Dr Ismuni criticized the portal for not verifying facts and warned of potential legal action if the misinformation is not corrected.