The government saved RM3 billion by leasing 28 helicopters for government agencies, including two AW139 aircraft that expand the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department’s fleet to 10.

SUBANG: 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.