Nga: Govt Saves RM3 Bln By Leasing 28 Helicopters Including Two AW139 Units To JBPM

SUBANG, Nov 4 (Bernama) -- The government saved RM3 billion through a leasing arrangement for 28 helicopters for use by government agencies, including two AW139 units that have expanded the air assets of the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) to 10 helicopters.

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said that under this leasing approach, as opposed to direct purchase, the responsibility for maintenance is shifted to the leasing company for the entire 15-year duration.

"Before, we had to buy. We now have a leasing system and we are now maintenance-free," he said while speaking at the launching ceremony of JBPM AW139 Helicopter Operations here today.

Referring to the two AW139s, Nga said the addition would strengthen JBPM's capability to carry out search and rescue (SAR) operations, extinguishing of forest fires and logistics aid deliveries.

He said the use of air assets can expedite the delivery of rescue teams to the incident locations  in addition to reducing the risk of fatigue and injury among personnel during SAR operations.

"Before the addition of the two AW139s, JBPM 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," he also 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, JBPM 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.

-- BERNAMA