Condolence messages pour in

PETALING JAYA: Messages have been pouring in from Malaysians offering their sympathies to the families of the victims of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) crash in Lumut.

A check by The Star found that users on social media have sent messages asking the family members to stay strong in their hour of grief. Others hoped that investigations will find out the cause of the incident.

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

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

“Even the strong 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 wrote.

Michael Wong expressed hope that the authorities would investigate the matter thoroughly.

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

Sam Kinston said the devastating crash involving the two helicopters has raised more questions than answers.

Meanwhile, Bernama reported that the Australian government expressed its condolences to the families of 10 victims who died in the mishap.

Australia Veteran’s Affairs Assistant Minister Matt Thistlewaite said a tragedy such as this hits home to all across the world and particularly to the two nations.

Separately, the families of the victims involved in the crash will each receive RM10,000 in preliminary assistance, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

“As a way to provide relief to the burden faced by the families, the Cabinet agreed to channel preliminary assistance of RM10,000 to each of the families involved,” the Defence Minister said in a statement yesterday.

Khaled added that a special fund has been set up by the Defence Ministry to allow the public to contribute donations to the affected families.