KOTA KINABALU (ANN/THE STAR) – The families of three Malaysian state ministers, including then Chief Minister Tun Mohd Fuad Stephens, are considering legal action for compensation over the Double Six air crash that killed 11 people.
The tragic incident occurred on June 6, 1976, when the Nomad aircraft 9M-ATZ crashed in Sembulan waters while approaching the Kota Kinabalu airport from Labuan.
Tun Mohd Fuad Stephens, Datuk Peter Mojuntin, and Datuk Salleh Sulong were among the victims on board.
On the eve of the crash’s anniversary, their families released a joint statement seeking recognition and alleviation of the “immense suffering” they have endured for nearly five decades. They hope to finally receive compensation and justice for their loss.
Mohd Fuad’s daughter Faridah, Mojuntin’s son Donald and Salleh’s daughter Kartina issued the statement on behalf of their families yesterday.
They said that they were considering legal action to seek compensation as there was no response from the Federal Government.
“The declassification of the Malaysian Investigation Report on April 12, 2023, provided crucial insights into the circumstances of the crash, but the reasons for the long delay in releasing the report remain opaque.
“The long and inordinate delay has only deepened the wounds suffered by the families as they have not been able to move forward and obtain closure in respect of this tragic chapter in their lives.
“Moved by an unwavering desire for justice and closure, the families are now asking the Federal Government of Malaysia to make amends in the form of compensation, and have conveyed their request to them.
“Regrettably, to date, there has been no response,” they said in the statement.
The incident is widely known as the Double Six tragedy, based on the date of the crash, and its anniversary is marked every year at the site by the state government.
The family members also invited the community to join them today in remembering and honouring the lives lost in the crash 48 years ago.
“The families continue to carry the legacy of their loved ones not only in their hearts but also through their actions. They are committed to seeking the truth and justice, ensuring that such a tragedy never occurs again,” they added in the statement.
