Former KLK director dies in Indonesia helicopter crash

 Tangga Batu MP Bakri Jamaluddin says Patrick Kee was a respected leader who had a profound impact on those who worked with him.

Eight people died when an Airbus H130 helicopter crashed in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, en route to Kubu Raya Regency. (X pics)

PETALING JAYA:

 Patrick Kee, a former plantations director of Kuala Lumpur Kepong group, was the Malaysian who died in a helicopter crash in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, on Thursday, according to Tangga Batu MP Bakri Jamaluddin.

He said he had served under Kee’s leadership while at Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad (KLK).

“He was a respected leader whose dedication, wisdom and commitment had a profound impact on many who worked with him,” Bakri said in a Facebook tribute.

Indonesia’s search and rescue agency said the Malaysian was one of six passengers on the helicopter, Bernama reported.

The other victims were named as Marindra W (pilot), Harun Arasyid (technician), and passengers Victor T, Charles L, Joko C, Fauzie O and Sugito.

The helicopter, operated by Matthew Air Nusantara, took off at 7.34am local time from Melawi Regency before it lost contact at 8.39am while en route to Kubu Raya Regency.

Indonesian authorities said the cause of the crash has yet to be determined. A preliminary report is expected to be issued within 30 days. - FMT