KUALA LUMPUR – Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad had requested to double the Flying Doctor Service (FDS) allowance from RM30 to at least RM60 per entry as early as November 2025, prior to the tragic Miri helicopter crash, his special duties officer confirmed.
Fadhli Umar Aminolhuda, who is an Amanah Youth exco member and the minister’s special functions officer, stated that the proposal to increase the allowance, which has remained unchanged since the service was introduced in 1978, is currently undergoing financial review by relevant central agencies, including the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and the Public Service Department (JPA).
“The Minister pushed for this increase well before the tragedy occurred, and we hope the revised rate will be formalized in the upcoming Budget 2027 announcement,” Fadhli Umar said in a social media statement.
Addressing online speculation regarding the condition of the aircraft involved in the Long Lellang crash, Fadhli Umar dismissed viral images and artificial-intelligence-generated graphics alleging that the helicopter was outdated or poorly maintained.
He emphasized that all aircraft must clear rigorous safety certifications from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) prior to flight, adding that the police had verified the helicopter underwent maintenance on August 24 and was certified fit for 100 flight hours.
Fadhli Umar urged the public to refrain from premature speculation while official investigations into the cause of the crash remain ongoing, citing the need to respect the privacy of the grieving families.
He added that while Dr Dzulkefly could not travel to Miri directly due to his attendance at the ongoing ASEAN Health Ministers Meeting, his political secretary has flown to the site to meet with the victims’ next of kin and convey personal contributions. -MalayaDailyToday
