Copter tragedy: Malaysians continue to send condolences to families of victims

PETALING JAYA: More than 24 hours after the helicopter crash in Lumut, messages continue to pour in from Malaysians, asking the family members of the victims to stay strong.

A check by The Star found that users on social media continue to send their condolences to the families of the ten victims involved in the crash at the navy base in Lumut on Tuesday (April 23).

Christopher Chan KB wrote: "Deepest condolences to all the families on this tragedy. May God pour His comfort and strength upon them at such a difficult moment. We share your grief."

Meanwhile, Facebook user Lim Peng Siong noted that military air operations or training are definitely high-risk jobs.

"Even the strongest United States has military aircraft accidents from time to time. I hope the country will make reasonable compensation for the heroes, and may the deceased rest in peace," he added.

Meanwhile, Michael Wong expressed hope that the authorities would investigate the matter.

"Hopefully some reporters will start to ask the TLDM on why so many personnel were on board during a flypast rehearsal," he said.

Sam Kinston echoes Wong's concerns, adding that the crash of the two helicopters raises more questions than answers.

The 10 navy crew members killed in the crash, which involved two helicopters, included Squadron 502 commanding officer Commander Muhamad Amir Mohamad; Lieutenant T Sivasutan (Squadron 502 pilot) and Warrant Officer II Mohd Shahrizan Mohd Termizi (Squadron 502 Air Quartermaster).

Others killed were Squadron 503 Commanding Officer Commander Muhammad Firdaus Ramli; Lt Commander Wan Rezaudeen Kamal Zainal Abidin; Squadron 503 Air Tactical Officer, Lt Commander Mohammad Amirulfaris Mohd Marzukhi; and Squadron 503 Air Quartermaster Warrant Officer II Muhammad Faisol Tamadun.

The three women killed in the collision were Able Seaman I Joanna Felicia Rohna from the TLDM Air Base, Warrant Officer II Norfarahimi Saedy (West Armada Supply Depot) as well as Petty Officer Nor Rahiza Anuar (West Armada Supply Depot).

It was reported that the remains of the victims would be accorded military honours at the 23rd Royal Malay Regiment Camp here once the post-mortem process was completed.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin was reported saying that an investigation board would be set up to determine the cause of the crash.

He also urged the public not to share the viral video of the incident.