Kuala lumpur: All Flying Doctor Service (FDS) operations in Sarawak have been temporarily suspended to allow a comprehensive review and investigation of their safety and operational mechanisms, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. This decision comes in response to a helicopter crash on Tuesday involving an aircraft used for the service in Long Lellang, Miri.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Dzulkefly assured that despite the suspension, medical evacuation (Medevac) services for emergencies would continue through cooperation between the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM). Discussions are also underway with the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) to explore using their assets for transporting patients requiring emergency treatment to appropriate healthcare facilities.

Dr Dzulkefly highlighted that the MOH will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the FDS delivery framework in Sarawak. This includes contracts, governance, operational safety, coverage requirements, and the effectiveness of the existing service delivery model. The aim is to ensure that the future approach is safer, more resilient, sustainable, and responsive to the healthcare needs of communities in rural Sarawak.

He also mentioned that the MOH is reviewing FDS service locations and access methods, including alternative transport options and other safe and practical approaches, to ensure continued access to healthcare services for rural communities. Dr Dzulkefly emphasized that while the temporary suspension may pose difficulties and challenges, the safety of personnel and patients remains the priority, alongside ensuring continued access to healthcare services in affected areas.

The ministry will monitor the situation and provide the public with updates as necessary. Meanwhile, Sarawak police commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah confirmed the recovery and transportation of all five victims' remains from Long Lellang to Miri for post-mortems.