SHAH ALAM – The Higher Education Ministry has assured that comprehensive assistance will be given to all victims and the families of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students involved in the bus crash in Gerik early this morning.
Its minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy that claimed the lives of 15 students from the institution.
"This incident is a great loss to the nation’s higher education sector.
"The ministry extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the entire UPSI community," he said in a statement.
During the 1.10am incident, a bus carrying 36 UPSI students reportedly skidded off the road before plunging into a ravine while on their way back from a community service programme in Kelantan.
A total of 15 students were confirmed dead, while the remaining students sustained various degrees of injuries and were receiving treatment at Gerik Hospital and Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital in Ipoh.
Zambry said the ministry was now working closely with UPSI’s management and relevant agencies to coordinate all forms of assistance, including psychosocial support, logistics and other welfare needs.
"The ministry is also closely monitoring the condition of those still receiving treatment and will ensure they are provided with the appropriate care and support," he said.
He added that any further developments regarding the incident will be announced from time to time.