A freak accident happened on June 9 when a bus carrying over 40 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students crashed into a Perodua Alza in Hulu Perak, killing 15 of them.
The bus driver has since apologised and shared his side of the story, claiming that the brakes suddenly stopped working at the time.
“Every life lost is a tremendous loss”
Following the tragic accident, Transport Minister Anthony Loke took to Facebook to express his condolences to the victims and their families.
“I am deeply saddened and affected by the news of the tragic crash that claimed the lives of 15 UPSI students on the East–West Highway in Gerik. Every life lost is a tremendous loss, not just to the families, but also to the future of our country,” he wrote.
He also mentioned that right after the incident, the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) issued a show-cause letter to the bus company involved.
“At the same time, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) is carrying out a Safety Inspection and Audit (JISA) on the bus and the company involved, in accordance with the Road Transport Act (Act 333) and the Land Public Transport Act (Act 715). Firm action will be taken once investigations are complete.”
Govt to introduce a new policy for heavy vehicles
Loke also shared that the government is working on a policy that will make speed limiters mandatory for heavy vehicles, as part of efforts to improve road safety.
He said the policy is being carefully reviewed to make sure there are no loopholes or ways to abuse the system once it’s rolled out.
“The government will not relent in strengthening road safety measures. We are committed to protecting road users, especially from the risks posed by reckless drivers and heavy vehicles that fail to meet safety standards. This tragedy should serve as a reminder to all parties (government, operators, and the public) that there can be no compromise when it comes to saving lives.”
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