THE post-mortem process for 13 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students killed in Monday’s fatal bus crash near Tasik Banding is expected to conclude by midnight, according to the Perak State Health Department.
Dr Feisul Idzwan Mustapha, director of the department, said the bodies began arriving at the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital (HRPB) Forensic Unit from 9.30am following initial handling at Gerik Hospital.
"Post-mortems are underway and conducted by three teams simultaneously. So far, we have completed six of the 13," he said at a media briefing outside the hospital forensic unit on Monday afternoon.
"Identification must first be carried out by next of kin. However, several family members are still en route to Ipoh, some travelling from Terengganu. Until they arrive, certain bodies remain unidentified."
He added that each post-mortem typically takes between two and three hours. With current capacity, the process is expected to be completed by late evening—pending any unforeseen delays.
"Once post-mortems and identification are completed, the remains will be released immediately to the respective families. There will be no central gathering of the deceased beforehand," Dr Feisul said.
The atmosphere outside HRPB was sombre, as grieving relatives—some in tears—were seen comforting one another after stepping briefly outside the compound. Media representatives were restricted to designated areas, while families were allowed inside the forensic grounds to await updates.
Several hearses were already stationed nearby by 4pm, ready to transport the remains once formalities are concluded.
In a deeply emotional moment, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad visited the hospital and announced immediate assistance of RM1,000 for each bereaved family.
"We understand most of these families are not from wealthy backgrounds. This is to help with their expenses—accommodation, meals, anything they might need in these difficult moments," he said, visibly moved as he addressed the media.
"UPSI is working with other universities to provide vehicles to transport the deceased back to their respective hometowns for burial."
Datuk Seri Saarani extended condolences on behalf of the Perak state government and people, praising the efforts of responders and hospital staff who have been managing the tragedy since early morning.
"To those still in hospital, whether in critical or stable condition, we are praying for your swift recovery and that you may soon return to your studies at UPSI," he added.
The crash, which occurred around 1am on the East-West Highway near Tasik Banding, claimed the lives of 15 people—14 students and the bus attendant—and left 27 others injured. The UPSI bus was reportedly travelling from Jerteh, Terengganu, to the university’s campus in Tanjung Malim, Perak. - June 9, 2025
