UPSI bus accident: Anwar, Wan Azizah extend condolences to victims' families
He had instructed the Higher Education Ministry to coordinate appropriate assistance for all the families of the victims.
SHAH ALAM – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail expressed their deep sorrow over the road accident that occurred early Monday morning near Gerik, Perak.
The incident, which involved a bus and several other vehicles, claimed the lives of 15 students from Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI).
"Azizah and I are deeply saddened by the tragic accident that occurred this morning near Gerik, claiming the lives of 15 students.
“Our condolences to the families of the victims. We pray for strength and perseverance as you face this heartbreaking loss," the Prime Minister said in an official statement
Anwar added that he had instructed the Higher Education Ministry (MOHE) to coordinate appropriate assistance for all the families of the victims.
“Such a heart-wrenching tragedy, which recurs all too often, should serve as a lesson to all to always be cautious and not to rush towards any destination,” he added.
At around 1.10am on Monday, a bus carrying UPSI students from Jerteh, Terengganu to Tanjung Malim was involved in an accident along the East-West Highway (JRTB) near Tasik Banding, Gerik.
The Hulu Perak Civil Defence Force (APM) reported that 48 people were on board, including the driver, the bus assistant and passengers in a Perodua Alza that was also involved.
Thirteen victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries at Gerik Hospital. The injured were taken to the hospital for further treatment in the red, yellow, and green zones.
In a media statement, the UPSI vice-chancellor said that the bus was on its return journey after students had completed a community service programme in Kelantan.
Meanwhile, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir described the tragedy as a major loss for the higher education sector and affirmed that all necessary support, including psychosocial, logistical and welfare assistance is being coordinated with UPSI.
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