At least 15 people have lost their lives in a devastating road accident involving a bus and a minivan in northern Malaysia. The incident occurred early Monday morning near the town of Gerik, located in Perak state, along the East-West Highway an area known for frequent and often fatal traffic incidents.
According to authorities, the crash took place around 1:00 am local time when a bus carrying university students collided with a minivan. The force of the impact caused the bus to overturn, while the minivan slid into a ditch. The crash resulted in immediate and widespread casualties.
Thirteen people were pronounced dead at the scene, and two others succumbed to their injuries later in the hospital. In addition to the fatalities, 33 individuals sustained injuries, with seven of them reported to be in critical condition. The severely injured were quickly transported to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment.
The bus involved in the accident was transporting students from Sultan Idris Education University, located north of the capital Kuala Lumpur. The students were reportedly en route to a destination along the East-West Highway when the collision occurred. The road, which connects the east and west coasts of the Malaysian peninsula, is notorious for accidents due to its winding terrain and high traffic volume. It’s also known for animal-related road incidents, adding to its reputation as a dangerous route.
Rescue efforts began shortly after the crash was reported. Emergency responders faced significant challenges, particularly in extricating trapped passengers from the bus. A hydraulic cutter was employed to free six individuals from the wreckage. Sadly, four of those rescued had already died, while the remaining two were in serious condition.
Some victims managed to escape the wreckage on their own, while others were thrown from the bus or remained trapped inside. The intensity of the collision and the resulting injuries highlight the severe nature of the crash.
In response to the tragedy, Malaysia’s Prime Minister expressed deep sorrow and urged immediate action to assist the families of those affected. He directed the country’s Higher Education Ministry to provide all necessary support to the victims’ families. In a heartfelt message, he extended condolences and emphasized the need for greater caution on the roads, especially during long-distance travel.
He remarked on the pain and loss experienced by the families, noting that such tragic incidents occur all too frequently. He urged drivers and transport operators to prioritize safety over speed, stating that lives are irreplaceable and should never be endangered for the sake of reaching a destination quickly.
This latest accident once again brings national attention to Malaysia’s troubling road safety record. The country reports a high rate of traffic-related deaths, with statistics indicating that one person dies approximately every two hours on Malaysian roads. This alarming frequency underscores the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and improved driver education.
As investigations into the exact cause of the crash continue, the nation mourns another preventable loss of life. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, proper vehicle maintenance, and responsible driving behavior.
