Tragic Bus Collision Claims 15 Lives in Northern Malaysia
Early Monday morning, a devastating road accident occurred near the town of Gerik on Malaysia's notorious East-West Highway, claiming the lives of 15 people, most of whom were university students. Authorities confirmed that the bus, carrying students from Sultan Idris Education University, collided with a minivan shortly after 1:00 a.m., resulting in one of the deadliest crashes on Malaysian roads in over a decade.
Details from the Crash Site
According to local police, 13 victims died at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries in hospital. Rescue teams described a chaotic scene: the bus was found overturned on its right side with extensive damage to its rear, and the minivan had veered off into a ditch, its windows shattered. Some passengers managed to escape the wreckage on their own, while others remained trapped, requiring hydraulic cutters to free them.
Who Were the Victims?
The majority of those killed were students aged between 21 and 23, returning to campus from Jerteh, a northeastern town in Malaysia. Among the deceased was also the bus attendant. In addition to the fatalities, 33 people were injured, with seven in critical condition receiving treatment at nearby hospitals.
What Caused the Collision?
Perak State Police Chief Hisam Nordin revealed that initial investigations suggest the bus lost control and crashed into the minivan from behind. Authorities are working to determine whether the accident was due to human error or mechanical failure. Witnesses described a harrowing scene, with passengers trapped and calling out for help amid the wreckage.
Official Reactions and Road Safety Concerns
Malaysia’s Prime Minister expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, urging greater caution on the roads. He emphasized that such heartbreaking incidents convey an urgent message about the importance of safe driving and vigilance. The East-West Highway, a critical link connecting Malaysia’s east and west coasts, is notorious for frequent accidents, often involving collisions with animals as well as vehicles.
Malaysia continues to wrestle with high traffic fatality rates, averaging 18 deaths each day. The worst bus disaster prior to this occurred in 2013, when a bus plunged into a ravine northeast of Kuala Lumpur, killing 37 people.
Looking Ahead
Authorities have vowed to conduct a thorough investigation to prevent future tragedies. Meanwhile, families of the victims are receiving government assistance, with university officials and emergency services coordinating to provide support during this difficult time.
The collision near Gerik serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need to improve road safety standards and driver awareness on Malaysia’s challenging highways.
