Lumut copter tragedy a big loss to the nation, says Anwar

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has conveyed his condolences to the families of those killed in the helicopter collision in Lumut on Tuesday (April 23).

"The nation mourns the heart-wrenching and soul-wrenching tragedy involving the crash of two helicopters at Lumut TLDM Base today.

"Condolences to all the families of the victims and prayers for them to have strength to face this calamity," he said in a statement.

He said the tragedy has a profound effect on the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) and is a great loss for the country.

“May the soul of all those who died be showered with mercy and placed among the believers and the righteous," he said.

Anwar said the Royal Malaysian Navy and Defence Ministry will immediately carry out a probe into the helicopter crash which killed 10 crew members.

MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong also extended his condolences to the families of the victims of the crash.

"My heartfelt condolences to the family members of the victims of the helicopter crash during a training exercise at TLDM airbase this morning.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the family members as they go through this very difficult time," he said in a Facebook post.

Earlier today, two naval helicopters collided in mid-air during training at the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) stadium in Lumut, Perak.

No survivors were found in the incident.