KUCHING — Staff nurse Debra Moset, 40, one of five people killed in a helicopter crash last Tuesday, was remembered by family, friends, and colleagues for her dedication and service in remote medical care.

Debra was aboard a Flying Doctor Service helicopter traveling to the village of Long Lellang when the crash occurred. Prior to the accident, she had sent updates and photos to her husband, John Then Hua Ken, 44, from stops at Ba Lai and Long Siut. Her final message, indicating she was en route to Long Lellang, was followed shortly by the tragic accident.

The crash claimed the lives of pilot Capt Zainol Afiq Bee Sham, 30; medical officer Dr Ainul Baraah Kamarudin, 33; assistant medical officer Alexson Adit Henry, 31; and fellow staff nurse Jessie Paya Jok, 44, alongside Debra.

Speaking from their home in Kampung Semadang near Kuching, Then described his late wife as humble, kind, and deeply committed to her work. Debra had previously served for several years in Long Lellang before being posted to Miri, where she was well regarded by the local community. Then noted that he considered Long Lellang a safe place, which brought him comfort upon hearing of her last message. The news of the crash from friends in Long Lellang initially felt unbelievable to him, but silence in response to his multiple messages confirmed his fears.

Then recalled a recent holiday the couple took to Singapore, a trip Debra had planned as a rare getaway for just the two of them. Upon returning, she resumed her duties before the fatal flight.

At a funeral service held at St Patrick’s Chapel in Kampung Semadang, family, friends, and colleagues gathered to pay their respects. In a eulogy, Debra’s niece, Lizfornia Derik, highlighted her courage and dedication as a nurse willing to travel to hard-to-reach areas. She described Debra as a role model, a loving mother, and a kind aunt who led by example.

“She left us in service and returned as a hero,” Lizfornia said, expressing both sorrow and pride.

Debra was laid to rest at the St Patrick’s Chapel cemetery. She is survived by her two children, Euodia Then Suling, 15, and Eugene Then Kuling, 12. The community continues to mourn the loss of all those who perished in the crash, mourning not only their passing but the vital medical services they provided in remote regions.