16 hours ago
Gerik crash: Apad issues show-cause letter to bus operator
KUALA LUMPUR: The Land Public Transport Agency (Apad) has issued a show-cause letter to the bus operator involved in the fatal crash that claimed the lives of 15 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the Road Transport Department (RTD) is concurrently conducting a Safety Inspection and Audit (JISA) on the bus and the operating company, under the Road Transport Act and the Land Public Transport Act.
"Stern action will be taken once investigations are completed.
"The government will not stop in its efforts to strengthen road safety policies.
"We are committed to protecting road users, especially from the threat of irresponsible drivers and heavy vehicles that do not meet the required safety standards," he said in a statement today.
Loke said that among the policies being formulated is the mandatory installation of speed limiters on heavy vehicles.
This policy, he said, is being reviewed comprehensively, including measures to prevent any manipulation once it is enforced.
"I also acknowledge the swift action taken by the Higher Education Ministry and the UPSI management in assisting the victims' families.
"This tragedy must serve as a reminder to all — the government, operators, and the community — that there can be no compromise when it comes to the safety of life," he said.
Loke expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, said that he was deeply saddened and affected by the accident.
"Every life lost is a great loss not only to their families but also to the future of our nation.
"I extend my heartfelt condolences to all the families of the victims.
"My prayers are with the victims and their families as they endure this incredibly difficult time," he said.
Earlier this morning, 15 people were killed when the bus they were in collided with a multi-purpose vehicle along Jalan Jeli-Gerik near Tasik Banding, Perak.
The accident involved a UPSI student bus and a Perodua Alza. A total of 33 people were injured.
