POLICE have recorded statements from 18 individuals as part of the ongoing investigation into the horrific crash at kilometre 53 of the East-West Highway which killed 15 people, including Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students, earlier this week.
Perak police chief Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin said the statements include accounts from 13 students who survived the crash and have since been discharged from hospital, along with the driver of the Perodua Alza involved in the collision.
“Other witnesses include the Alza driver’s wife, who is still receiving treatment at Baling Hospital, a dashcam witness whose video has since gone viral on social media, and a forensic doctor from Gerik Hospital,” he said during a press conference at the Perak Police Contingent Headquarters today.
However, police are still waiting to record a statement from the 39-year-old driver of the chartered bus, who remains under medical care.
“We are awaiting his discharge and medical clearance,” Noor Hisam confirmed, noting that no remand application has yet been submitted. He also stated that a blood sample from the driver has been sent to the Chemistry Department for toxicological analysis, with the results still pending.
The investigation, he added, is being carried out in collaboration with several government bodies to ensure a thorough and transparent process.
“The police are working closely with multiple agencies — including the Chemistry Department, the Public Works Department, the Road Transport Enforcement Agency, and the Bukit Aman Forensic Division — to ensure a thorough investigation,” he said.
As for the dashcam footage purportedly showing the crash, Noor Hisam said the video is currently being analysed to determine its authenticity and relevance.
“The footage is not entirely clear and may require expert verification. It has been sent to the Bukit Aman Forensic team for further examination,” he added.
The incident occurred when a chartered bus carrying 42 UPSI students from Jertih, Terengganu, to the university’s main campus in Tanjung Malim collided with a Perodua Alza. Thirteen students died at the scene, while two others later succumbed to their injuries in hospital. - June 11, 2025
