PUTRAJAYA, Oct 15 — The next-of-kin of four Ministry of Health (MOH) staff who perished in a helicopter crash in Long Lellang, Ulu Baram, Sarawak, will begin receiving monthly derivative pension payments starting Oct 21.

This initiative is part of the government’s commitment to ensuring the continued well-being of the victims’ families.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said MOH, in collaboration with the Public Service Department (PSD) and the Sarawak State Health Department, has managed the disbursement of derivative pension benefits and appropriate financial assistance to the next-of-kin in a comprehensive and prudent manner.

He noted that the total lump-sum payments for which the next-of-kin are eligible include compensation for accumulated leave (GCR), a derivative gratuity, funeral expense assistance, and an ex-gratia death payment.