KUCHING: A doctor in need is a doctor indeed. This was the case when Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee assisted a passenger experiencing a medical emergency during a flight to Kuala Lumpur and for his selfless act he received a letter of appreciation from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) chairman Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin.
Wan Zulkiflee said he read with admiration from various news reports on the Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development’s prompt action in providing medical assistance to a passenger onboard Malaysia Airlines’ flight MH2521 from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur.
“On behalf of MAG and the entire Malaysia Airlines family, I would like to express our sincerest appreciation to YB Datuk for his support to our cabin crew and the passenger during the emergency situation.
“Our crew spoke highly of YB Datuk’s professionalism and were greatly pleased to have YB Datuk onboard,’ he said in the letter signed on Sept 7.
Wan Zulkiflee said Dr Annuar’s gesture promptly resolved the situation, thus ensuring a smooth flight for everyone on board.
The letter was shared by Dr Annuar on his Facebook page yesterday (Sept 19) with the caption: “Thank you Tan Sri for the acknowledgement. To all MH2521 crew, you have served excellently! May we all remain safe and healthy always.”
During the incident, the flight attendant made an emergency announcement requesting the presence of any medical personnel or doctor onboard and to identify themselves to a cabin crew member.
He was informed that the passenger was experiencing breathing difficulties due to asthma and needed an inhaler or nebulizer. However, she was still having difficulty breathing after a few puffs from the inhaler.
The patient’s condition improved as the aircraft’s emergency kit was equipped with a nebulizer and after receiving treatment, the patient no longer experienced shortness of breath and felt relieved.
Following this, Dr Annuar had to make four copies of a medical report about the incident, and he was thankful that the woman arrived safely in Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
