KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysia Sports Aviation Federation (MSAF) gives an assurance it will enhance the safety and enjoyment of paragliding for all.
The federation, through the Sports Aviation Operation (SAO) Department, led by First Officer Zil Syamil, will be conducting a comprehensive review on the infrastructure, safety protocols, safety assessments, insurance compliance and standard operational procedures of paragliding ride providers.
The move is made after the Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry yesterday announced that paragliding companies would be suspended for at least 14 days after an accident for the authorities to investigate the case.
The announcement comes after a spate of paragliding accidents in Sabah prompted the state government to review the procedures of operators of the activity.
MSAF president Mohd Nurhaqimy Mohd Ismail said participants were encouraged to verify that both the operator and pilots were authorised and qualified to provide rides before engaging their services.
"MSAF is a governing body for sports aviation in Malaysia under the Youth and Sports Ministry. It is MSAF's responsibility to make sure all sports aviation activities are carried out safely and comply with all rules and regulations.
"Only operators that comply with SAO requirements, will be awarded with Sports Aviation Operator Certificate (SAOC).
"We are committed to keeping the public informed throughout this process and will provide updates on our progress and any changes to the status of all flying sites in Sabah," he said in a statement.
Nurhaqimy also asked members of the paragliding community to share their feedback and suggestions to work towards the reopening of sites in a safe and responsible manner.