Brake failure likely caused Gerik crash, says bus operator
KOTA BARU: Brake failure and a technical fault may have caused the crash that killed 15 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students near Tasik Banding, Gerik yesterday, the bus operator claimed.
Kenari Utara operations officer Nazri Nawi said this was based on information gathered after speaking with the driver.
"This was something that couldn't be avoided. Before the trip, the bus was in good condition as we carried out the scheduled maintenance," he said.
Nazri said the crash could have been triggered when the bus's air brake system failed.
"When the air system is empty, the brakes, gear and handbrake stop functioning."
He dismissed claims that the bus driver was speeding.
"I'm confident he was not speeding as claimed online. He is a careful driver and knows the road well. The viral video probably showed the bus going fast because the brakes failed while going downhill on a winding road."
Nazri extended his condolences to the victims and their families, saying the company was deeply saddened by the incident.
Police earlier said the bus crashed after rear-ending a Perodua Alza before overturning.
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