SUBANG: The government has saved RM3 billion through a leasing arrangement for 28 helicopters for use by various government agencies, including two AW139 units that have expanded the Fire and Rescue Department’s fleet to 10 helicopters.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the leasing arrangement, instead of direct purchases, shifted maintenance responsibilities to the leasing company throughout the 15-year contract period.
“Before this, we had to buy (helicopters). Now, we have a leasing system and we are now maintenance-free,” he said at the launch of the Fire and Rescue Department AW139 helicopter operations.
He said the two AW139 helicopters would strengthen the department’s capabilities in search and rescue (SAR) operations, forest firefighting and the delivery of logistical aid.
“Before the addition of the two AW139s, the department operated eight helicopters strategically placed at three air bases in Penang, Selangor and Sarawak.
“The department also has 26 helicopter pilots, including qualified flight instructors for the AW109 and AW139 helicopters to support its smooth operation,” Nga said.
Nga added that aviation safety must continue to be a priority, alongside strengthening cooperation between agencies and the industry in the development of aviation technology, training and expertise building.
Also present at the event were Housing and Local Government Ministry secretary-general Datuk Wira Dr M Noor Azman Taib, Fire and Rescue Department director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad, Weststar Group managing director Tan Sri Dr Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim, and the Italian Ambassador to Malaysia, Raffaele Langella.