29-05-2025
US embassy donates medical equipment to Flying Doctor Service
Johan, Maria and Bryant with the medical equipment.
KOTA KINABALU (May 29): The United States Embassy in Kuala Lumpur has donated essential medical equipment to the Sabah Health Department's Flying Doctor Service (FDS), marking a significant boost to healthcare delivery in remote regions of the state.
The handover ceremony took place today at the Layang-Layang Aerospace hangar in Tanjung Aru. The donated items include portable ultrasound machines, automated external defibrillators (AEDs), oxygen concentrators, and various medical kits.
Sabah Health Director Dr Maria Suleiman received the equipment and delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing profound gratitude. She emphasized the vital role of the FDS in reaching remote and underserved communities across Sabah, often facing formidable logistical challenges.
'This contribution is not merely a collection of machines and tools; it is a lifeline, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the enduring spirit of partnership and compassion between our nations,' she said.
Dr Maria added that the equipment will greatly enhance the FDS's ability to diagnose, treat and save lives, especially in areas with limited access to healthcare facilities.
The event was attended by representatives from the US Army Civil Military Support Element, the US Embassy's Office of Defence Cooperation, Sabah State Health Department, and Layang-Layang Aerospace personnel.
Captain Bryant Y. Kim of the US Army described the donation as a symbol of the strong and lasting partnership between the United States and Malaysia.
He expressed appreciation for the support from Layang-Layang Aerospace and emphasized the Embassy's interest in future collaborations to assess the donation's impact.
'Our goal is to strengthen the Sabah Health Department's capabilities in delivering healthcare to those who need it most — especially in remote and underserved areas of the vast and beautiful state of Sabah,' Kim said.
He praised the dedication of the FDS team in overcoming geographical and logistical barriers, reinforcing the shared commitment of both nations to improving healthcare access.
Layang-Layang Aerospace Sdn Bhd managing director Hj Johan Poong Abdullah said the equipment is expected to immediately improve the FDS's operational capacity, enabling more efficient and effective medical services.
'This event is a powerful demonstration of international cooperation and a shared commitment to the well-being of Sabah's people. It reminds us that when nations unite in the spirit of humanity and mutual respect, extraordinary achievements are possible,' he said.
