A ROLLER coaster at Sunway Lagoon has been ordered to remain out of operation following an abrupt stop that injured 10 passengers, as authorities investigate whether mechanical or other safety issues could pose a risk to future riders.
The incident occurred last Saturday when the roller coaster, carrying 22 passengers, failed to move forward about 200 metres from the launch area after initially operating normally.
The failure automatically activated the ride’s emergency braking system, bringing the attraction to an abrupt halt.
“The incident automatically activated the emergency braking system, causing the ride to come to an abrupt stop,” the Selangor Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) said in a statement today.
Ten passengers were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment for injuries sustained from the impact. The injuries were reported to be minor.
DOSH has issued a prohibition order at the scene, preventing the ride from operating while investigations are carried out to establish what went wrong and whether the attraction meets safety requirements.
Technical and forensic examinations will be conducted by the DOSH Putrajaya Forensic Engineering Division, while investigators are also taking statements from the employer and witnesses.
The investigation is being conducted under Section 18(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994.
The probe places public safety at the centre of the inquiry, with authorities seeking to establish not only what caused the sudden stoppage but whether existing inspection, maintenance and emergency systems were sufficient to prevent riders from being put at risk.
Sunway Group founder Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah confirmed the incident on Tuesday and said metal fatigue could have contributed to the failure, although this has yet to be established by investigators.
He said police had ruled out foul play and disclosed that the ride had undergone comprehensive inspection and maintenance work about two to three weeks before the incident.
The latest investigation is expected to determine whether further repairs, inspections or safety measures are necessary before the attraction can be allowed to resume operations.
The case highlights the importance of rigorous and continuing safety checks for high-speed amusement rides, where mechanical failures can expose large numbers of members of the public to injury within seconds. - August 27, 2026
