Malaysian authorities recover remains of all 5 aboard ‘flying doctor’ helicopter after crash

Kelly Granado, whose parents died in Venezuela's June 24 earthquakes, poses for photos at her restaurant in downtown Los Angeles, Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

2026-09-09T12:09:53Z

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Authorities recovered Wednesday the remains of all five people aboard a “flying doctor” service helicopter that crashed on Malaysia’s Borneo island the day before.

The crash happened near the Long Lellang airstrip in northern Sarawak, Malaysia’s largest state, which covers vast rural and remote areas where healthcare access can be difficult. “Flying doctor” transports medical teams to isolated areas.

Formal identification of the remains of the pilot and four medical workers began, officials said.

Authorities haven’t immediately shared the cause of the crash or whether weather conditions played a role, as haze fueled by forest fires in neighboring Indonesia has hit Sarawak in recent weeks.

An investigation was underway.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim offered condolences Wednesday and urged people to refrain from speculation as authorities investigate the crash. He said the government would provide the victims’ families with all necessary assistance and support.

The Sarawak government has announced cash assistance for the victims’ families and pledged to cover their children’s school fees.