THE bus driver involved in the fatal crash along the East-West Highway (JRTB) near Tasik Banding, which claimed 15 lives, has been advised by police to refrain from making any statements to avoid disrupting the official investigation.
Perak Police Chief Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin said the 39-year-old driver, who is currently undergoing treatment at Taiping Hospital, would only be questioned once medically cleared.
“The statements by the bus driver could raise various other speculations. Although this country allows freedom of speech, I want him to be patient until it is his turn to give his statement,” Noor Hisam told reporters during a press conference at the Perak Police Contingent Headquarters (IPK) on Tuesday.
The accident occurred on Monday at kilometre 53 of the East-West Highway, when a chartered bus carrying students from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) overturned while travelling from Jertih, Terengganu to the university’s campus in Tanjung Malim. A Perodua Alza was also involved in the collision.
Fifteen people were killed, while 33 others sustained injuries, including the bus driver, his assistant, and three occupants of the Alza.
Noor Hisam confirmed that statements from 18 witnesses, including UPSI students, have been recorded. He also noted that several agencies are assisting in the investigation, including the Malaysian Chemistry Department, the Road Transport Department (JPJ), and the Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (PUSPAKOM).
A dashboard camera recording of the crash has been sent to Bukit Aman’s Forensic Department for analysis.
“We are conducting a detailed investigation involving all relevant parties to determine the exact cause of the incident,” Noor Hisam said. - June 11, 2025
