Jimmy Wong, who is assistant minister in the Chief Minister’s Department, said many Sabahans wanted to know the real reason for the crash which took place 42 years ago, just 53 days after Stephen was sworn in as chief minister.
“Whether the cause of the accident was the plane being overweight, as some people claimed, is still doubtful. The people don’t believe it.
“So I hope the new chief minister will look into it. It has been 42 years, and the time has come to reveal it once and for all,” the Sabah DAP adviser told reporters after attending the annual Double Six memorial here today.
According to eyewitness accounts, including that of George Mojuntin, the eldest son of Peter Mojuntin who also died in the crash, the Nomad plane stalled midair before crashing 600 feet into the shallow sea below.
At the time, Nomad aircraft were not equipped with black boxes to record changes in course and altitude.
Wong said while the people wanted to know the truth of the matter, they should also be sensitive to the feelings of the victims’ family members.
“If they want answers, sure. They are an important factor in this investigation. I think the chief minister is wise enough to decide on the matter,” he added.
Results of the investigation into the crash, announced on June 22 that year, said the incident was due to pilot error. However, additional details were not released, and have remained classified since then.
According to the National Archives of Malaysia, where the report can be found, this is because “Malaysia has not as yet publicly released their final and full report of the investigation”.
The Double Six memorial today was also attended by Gabungan Sabah leaders from Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) and the Sabah Progressive Party.
STAR president Jeffrey Kitingan said the alliance would fully support the state government if it decides to declassify the investigation report on the crash.
http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2012/03/03/double-six-tragedy-putrajaya-must-reopen-probe/
Sabah history incomplete without details of Double Six tragedy