The Health Ministry will review every helicopter contract linked to Sarawak’s Flying Doctor Service after last week’s fatal crash in Long Lellang, including the RM30 allowance paid to FDS personnel for each flight. The review covers the service’s contracts, governance, operational safety, coverage needs and whether its current delivery model is working. Flying Doctor Service operations in Sarawak have also been temporarily suspended while the safety and operating arrangements are assessed. Police are separately examining the helicopter’s movements before the crash, including where it last refuelled and its departure from Miri. The technical cause remains with the Air Accident Investigation Bureau; police said they have found no indication so far of anything other than an accident. For rural Sarawak communities, the review matters because FDS is a key link to medical care when roads are long or inaccessible. The immediate question is how replacement access will be maintained while flights remain suspended; the ministry has not announced a full timetable for the review or a return to service.

Sarawak’s Flying Doctor Service has been temporarily suspended after Tuesday’s fatal helicopter crash in Long Lellang, Ulu Baram. The Health Ministry said the pause will allow authorities to investigate the crash and review the service’s safety and operating arrangements. The service reaches interior communities that have limited access to fixed healthcare facilities. Emergency medical evacuations will continue through cooperation between the ministry and the Fire and Rescue Department. The ministry is also discussing the possible use of Malaysian Armed Forces assets for patients who need urgent transport to healthcare facilities. The review will cover contracts, governance, operational safety, coverage and whether the current delivery model remains effective. The ministry said it is also looking at alternative ways to reach remote communities while the suspension is in place.