The navy confirmed the incident occurred at a naval base in northern Perak state as the helicopters practiced for the navy's upcoming 90th-anniversary celebration.  "All victims were confirmed dead at the scene," the navy stated, adding that the remains have been transported for identification.

Social media footage believed to be of the accident shows multiple helicopters flying in close formation at a low altitude. One helicopter loses control, veers sideways, and collides with the rotor blades of another, sending both aircraft spiraling down in a fiery crash.

The navy identified the helicopters involved as an AW139 maritime operation helicopter, typically carrying a crew of seven, and a Fennec lightweight helicopter with a crew of three. The AW139 is manufactured by AgustaWestland, a subsidiary of the Italian defense contractor Leonardo, while the Fennec is produced by the European multinational Airbus.

Local media reports indicate the AW139 crashed into a sports complex within the naval base, while the Fennec plunged into a nearby swimming pool.

The Malaysian navy has confirmed an investigation will be launched to determine the cause of the deadly collision. (ILKHA)