By Our Reporter
At least 15 people have been confirmed dead following a devastating road accident on the East-West Highway near the town of Gerik, close to Malaysia’s northern border with Thailand.
Perak State Police Chief Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri confirmed that the accident occurred on the evening of Monday, June 9, when a passenger bus carrying university students collided with a minivan. The students were reportedly returning to school following the weekend’s Islamic public holiday.
According to preliminary findings, the bus lost control and struck the minivan from behind. Thirteen victims died at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries while receiving medical treatment.
“It appeared that the bus lost control before ramming into the minivan. Some victims were able to escape on their own, others were thrown from the vehicle, and several remained trapped inside the wreckage,” said Perak State Police Chief Mohd Yusri, as quoted by France 24.
The bus was carrying 14 students from Sultan Idris Education University, all believed to be between the ages of 21 and 23. The bus attendant was among those killed in the crash.
In total, 33 individuals were injured in the incident. Seven of them remain in critical condition and are receiving urgent medical care at nearby hospitals.
Photos from the scene published by Daily Express Malaysia reveal the severity of the crash. The green university bus was overturned on its side, with significant damage to its rear, while the red minivan had veered into a roadside ditch, its windows shattered.
Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the accident, including whether it resulted from human error or mechanical failure.
This tragic incident adds to growing concerns about road safety on Malaysia’s highways, especially during peak travel periods around public holidays.