The army said three crew members – the instructor, the student and a quartermaster – were injured.

“All crew members are conscious, but have suffered injuries such as spinal fractures and wounds to various parts of the body, as well as other injuries that have yet to be determined,” it said in a statement.

“(They) are in stable condition and have been transported to Hospital Enche Besar Hajjah Khalsom, Kluang, for further treatment.”

The army said it has issued a temporary grounding order for the helicopter type, while it carries out rectification and one-time inspections to restore the aircraft’s flight status.

“Simultaneously, an investigation board will be convened to identify the cause of the incident. We also request the public to refrain from speculating and to pray for the speedy recovery of all crew members,” the statement added.

This incident follows two months after two Royal Malaysian Navy helicopters collided and crashed at Lumut naval base during a rehearsal for the navy’s 90th anniversary event, killing 10 servicemen and women.