Farm Fresh Mourns Director Jacob Mathan After Fatal Helicopter Crash

By Lara Kramer  •  05 Mar 2026 in News

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A senior figure from Malaysia’s popular dairy brand Farm Fresh has died following a helicopter crash in the Philippines.

The company confirmed the news in an internal message circulated yesterday. The victim, Jacob Mathan, served as Farm Director at Farm Fresh, and had been with the company for over a decade.

According to the company’s statement, Jacob passed away at about 7.20 a.m. after the helicopter he was travelling in went down in Pililla, Rizal Province. He was reportedly on a work trip to inspect a potential farm site when the incident occurred. The aircraft is believed to have experienced engine problems before crashing.

Farm Fresh also said that Shawn, the company’s Philippines CEO, was injured in the incident but is currently in stable condition and receiving medical treatment.

The company urged staff and the public to keep Shawn and Jacob’s family in their thoughts during this difficult time.

Jacob first joined Farm Fresh 13 years ago as a university intern at Mawar Farm and later worked his way up to become Farm Director.

Farm Fresh founder Loi Tuan Ee described him as a committed team member who played an important role in expanding the company’s dairy farming operations.

“Jacob joined the Farm Fresh family as a university intern 13 years ago. He showed a strong sense of responsibility, a willingness to learn, and above all, he was a genuinely good person,” he said.

“Over the years, Jacob progressed in his career and eventually became our Farm Director. He was friendly, respectful, and well-mannered with everyone he worked with.”

Jacob also worked closely with government bodies such as the Department of Veterinary Services and the East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC).

Loi added that Jacob was instrumental in strengthening ties with government agencies and industry partners, while the company added that he will be remembered for his dedication and contributions during his 13 years with Farm Fresh.

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