Seeking Justice and Compensation After Decades of Suffering
KOTA KINABALU (June 5): Family members of three victims from the Double Six Tragedy are contemplating legal action to seek compensation, hoping their nearly five decades of immense suffering will finally be acknowledged and alleviated.
“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 prolonged delay has only deepened the wounds suffered by the families, as they have not been able to move forward and obtain closure regarding this tragic chapter in their lives,” said a joint statement by Faridah Stephens, Donald Mojuntin, and Kartina Sulong on Tuesday.
A Plea for Compensation and Accountability
Moved by an unwavering desire for justice and closure, the families are now requesting the Federal Government of Malaysia to make amends through compensation. Despite their appeals, there has been no response from the authorities.
“The families are now considering legal action to seek compensation and reiterate that this step is taken in hopes of recognizing and alleviating the immense suffering endured over nearly five decades,” the statement added.
Remembering the Double Six Tragedy
On June 6, 1976, a devastating air crash involving the Nomad Aircraft 9M-ATZ claimed 11 lives, including Sabah’s prominent leaders: Chief Minister Tun Fuad Stephens, Housing Minister Datuk Peter Mojuntin, and Finance Minister Datuk Salleh Sulong. The event, etched in the hearts of Sabahans as the Double Six Tragedy, occurred as the aircraft approached the Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
“As we approach the 48th anniversary of this tragic day, the families wish to express their heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support and understanding from the public. A commemorative ceremony organized by the State Government will be held on June 6, 2024. We invite the community to join us in remembering and honoring the remarkable lives lost,” the statement continued.
Ongoing Pursuit of Truth and Justice
The families remain committed to seeking the truth and justice, ensuring that such a tragedy never occurs again. They appreciate the continued coverage and engagement by the Sabah newspapers, which have been crucial in keeping the story alive in the public consciousness.
Findings from Investigations
Australia’s investigation into the Double Six air crash mirrored Malaysia’s findings, stating that the GAF Nomad aircraft was operated illegally and was overloaded in the aft section. Malaysia’s report confirmed there were no elements of sabotage or engine failure, and that the pilot, Captain Gandhi J. Nathan, was fit and not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time. The probable cause of the crash was the aircraft’s overload in the aft section.