The Papua New Guinea man who died in a southeast Queensland hospital from COVID-19 complications this week was a former governor and respected businessman.
Malcolm “Mal” Kela Smith was a two-time governor of the Eastern Highlands and a pioneer of PNG’s aviation industry. The 77-year-old passed away in the intensive care unit at the Redcliffe Hospital on Monday after he had been evacuated from PNG on March 28.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said she wished to offer her condolences to his family.
“He was a very sick gentleman when he was medevaced (to Brisbane),” she said.
“I want to thank the staff that looked after him.”
Among Mr Smith’s ventures was Pacific Helicopters, which helped transport people living in regional areas to medical appointments.
According to local media, all businesses owned by Mr Smith, including Pacific Helicopters, were closed on Monday following news of his death.
The former governor was a dual PNG/UK citizen. He was born in London and…