KUCHING: The Flying Doctor Service (FDS) in Sarawak has been temporarily suspended following a helicopter crash in Long Lellang, Baram on September 8, 2026 with alternative methods introduced to ensure the continuity of healthcare services for communities in affected areas.

Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee said the government will continue to evaluate and improve healthcare service delivery methods in remote regions, taking into account safety, effectiveness, and service continuity.

“To ensure the continuity of healthcare services for communities in affected areas, FDS will be temporarily replaced with suitable alternative healthcare delivery methods,” he said.

He said this when responding to a question from Krian Assemblyman Dato Friday Belik at the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here on Friday.

According to Datuk Michael Tiang, the alternative methods being implemented include deploying mobile clinic teams using four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles and river transportation to accessible areas.

Meanwhile, he noted that inter-agency contingency plans have been activated to ensure emergency services remain uninterrupted throughout the temporary suspension of FDS helicopter operations.

He added that life-saving medical evacuations (MEDEVAC) from remote areas are being coordinated via alternative Government air assets, including the Fire and Rescue Department Malaysia (JBPM) Air Unit, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Air Wing Unit, and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).

At the same time, Datuk Michael Tiang informed that the government is drafting proposals for comprehensive improvements and enhancements to the FDS to ensure the service can operate more safely and effectively in the future.

He stressed that these enhancements encompass operational safety, air asset capability and suitability, emergency preparedness training, staff welfare and protection, as well as strengthening healthcare delivery mechanisms in rural areas.

He further noted that to enhance the safety and readiness of healthcare personnel involved in MEDEVAC operations, the Sarawak State Health Department, in collaboration with JBPM, organised the Sarawak Medevac Staff Engagement, Safety Briefing and Aircraft Familiarisation Roadshow 2026 to reinforce understanding, preparation, and confidence among staff in conducting patient transfers safely and efficiently. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Nur Nabilla
Photos: Ibanez Jeffery Guang
Translator: Ryan Lim