Malaysian Firefighter Dies in Helicopter Crash During Training Exercise

Mohd Diya Che Jusoh, a Malaysian firefighter who had expressed his desire to fly in a helicopter one last time before retiring, tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash during a training exercise on April 23, 2024. The incident occurred at the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) base in Lumut, where two helicopters collided mid-air while conducting a rehearsal for a flypast event.

Diya was among the 10 TLDM personnel, all aged below 40, who perished in the incident. The victims included commanding officers, pilots, and other crew members. One helicopter crashed on the stairs at the stadium field, while the other plummeted into the swimming pool.

The firefighter's niece, Noorfarahimi Mohd Saedy, had spoken to her aunt about Diya's excitement to fly in a helicopter one last time before his planned retirement in June. "My aunt told me that Diya was looking forward to the helicopter ride as it would be his last before retiring," Noorfarahimi shared. The tragic event has left Diya's family devastated, with his 12-year-old daughter, Nur Alwani Fatihah, recalling her father's unusual advice to focus on her studies before he left for work that tragic day.

The incident has prompted an investigation by the authorities to determine the cause of the crash. The Defense Minister has urged the public not to share the viral video of the incident and stated that an investigation board will be set up to investigate the matter thoroughly. The Royal Malaysian Navy's anniversary celebrations and parade were canceled in light of the tragedy, with a prayer ceremony held instead to honor the fallen personnel.

The bodies of the eight Muslim military personnel who lost their lives in the crash were moved from the Forensic Department of Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital to the Gua Permai Camp, 23rd Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, for burial preparations and funeral prayers. Tight security measures were in place at the Royal Malaysian Navy base following the incident, with media access restricted to official outlets like RTM and Bernama. The families of the victims have received condolences and support from the public, as the nation mourns the loss of these brave individuals who died in the line of duty.

Key Takeaways

• Malaysian firefighter Mohd Diya Che Jusoh died in a helicopter crash during a training exercise.
• The incident occurred at the Royal Malaysian Navy base in Lumut, involving 10 personnel under 40.
• The crash was the deadliest aviation accident in Malaysia since 2016, prompting an investigation.
• The Defense Minister urged the public not to share the viral video and set up an investigation board.
• The victims' bodies were moved for burial, and the Navy's anniversary celebrations were canceled.