Malaysian authorities are investigating reports of an unusual food pickup and delivery in Ipoh, Perak.
Video of the food pickup involving a chartered helicopter landing in an open field to pick up several packs of a popular rice dish caught the attention of authorities and aviation regulators.
According to local media reports, the helicopter landed near a popular outlet selling Nasi Kandar to pick up an order for a customer living in Kuala Lumpur.
Perak police chief, Mior Faridalathrash Wahid, said they are already taking statements from witnesses and local police. He said they also talked to the primary complainant, the food premises owner, and the company that owned the helicopter.
"Police are still investigating and the findings would be referred to the deputy public prosecutor for further instructions soon," Mior Faridalathrash said.
Local reports said the helicopter landed near the food outlet to pick up an order of 36 packs of the rice dish - also known locally as Nasi Ganja for its "addictive taste." The rice dish consists of chicken, meat, or other seafood and salted eggs among other ingredients. The dish is popular in Indian-Muslim restaurants across Malaysia.
Patrons of the restaurant along with the owner were unhappy about the unscheduled landing. Most questioned whether the flight was authorized and if relevant agencies were aware of the pickup at a time when intercity movement restrictions were in place.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia said the helicopter was operated by a private company. The agency said the helicopter left the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport before dropping by Ipoh and then returning to Subang.
The private aviation company said it will leave the investigation to the police and it will fully cooperate. The company said all of its papers were in order.
"I have nothing much to say except that it was a quick pickup. I have appointed my lawyers to handle the matter and we will give our full cooperation." The company said.
Authorities said the stop at the food outlet could be a violation of the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Regulations imposed by the government.
