Sombre 90th RMN anniversary following tragic crash

KUALA LUMPUR: The 90th Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) anniversary was marked in a sombre manner following Tuesday’s helicopter tragedy that claimed the lives of 10 RMN officers and personnel.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin, in a Facebook post, expressed hope that RMN personnel would remain steadfast and resilient for the sake of the people and the nation despite various obstacles and challenges.

“Let us never forget those who have left us, carry on the fighting spirit, remember their contributions and sacrifices, and keep them in our prayers.

“Similarly, let’s remember the past fighters who have left us. ‘TLDM Perkasa, Kedaulatan Terpelihara’ (The nation’s sovereignty is preserved with a strong RMN).

“Happy 90th anniversary to all Navy personnel and veterans,” he said yesterday, reported Bernama.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, who also extended condolences to RMN personnel and the families of those who perished in the helicopter crash in Lumut.

“To all RMN members and officers throughout the country, thank you for your service, dedication, and contribution in protecting the sovereignty and safety of our waters.

“For those who have returned to the Almighty, every drop of sweat of your sacrifice is greatly appreciated, and may you be rewarded for your deeds,” he said on Facebook.

Zambry, who once served as Pangkor assemblyman and Perak mentri besar, acknowledged being deeply affected by the tragedy as the RMN base in Lumut was located in the Pangkor state constituency.

At a separate event in Kuala Terengganu, Khaled said there is no plan to suspend the services of other helicopters similar to the ones which were involved in the crash in Lumut.

“So far, it’s not in that direction [temporary suspension],” he said at Kampung Dusun Tembakau in Manir, near here.

The helicopters involved in the crash were a Eurocopter Fennec and an Augusta-Westland. Ten RMN officers and personnel, including three women, perished in the incident.

Khaled said the wreckage of the two aircraft, including the black boxes, had been removed from the scene of the incident on Thursday.

He said the investigation into the incident conducted by an investigation board formed by RMN will also involve the Royal Malaysian Air Force and other experts including those from the helicopter manufacturers.

He also did not rule out the possibility that the investigation would involve external experts.