THE government will provide financial assistance to victims and families affected by the recent bus crash in Gerik, Perak, which claimed 15 lives, most of whom were students from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI).
Government spokesman and Minister of Communications Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had informed the Cabinet that RM10,000 would be given to the family of each deceased, while RM5,000 would be provided to each injured victim.
“In addition, the prime minister has instructed the Attorney-General's Chambers to look into the insurance aspects to ensure that the victims and their families receive the support they need,” Fahmi said.
The tragic incident occurred along Kilometre 53 of the East-West Highway (JRTB), Jeli-Gerik, when a bus carrying 42 students from Jertih, Terengganu, reportedly lost control and collided with a Perodua Alza multi-purpose vehicle before overturning.
In response to the incident, the Ministry of Transport has announced the development of a comprehensive central database system for all public transport bus drivers, including express and tour bus operators.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the system, to be established under the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), aims to enhance public transport safety by screening drivers with prior records of misconduct or offences.
“At present, there is no centralised system listing driver backgrounds. Companies rely solely on driving licences without knowing whether an individual has been involved in negligence or serious offences,” Loke said at a press conference at IPPTAR, Angkasapuri.
He noted that the absence of such a system has allowed problematic drivers to move between companies undetected.
“There are cases where a driver dismissed from Company A for disciplinary issues or poor performance is later hired by Company B due to the lack of a reference system. Through this database, companies will be able to check drivers’ backgrounds in advance,” he added.
The Cabinet has also directed the Ministry of Transport to enhance operational standards, driver assessments, and training in an effort to raise overall safety standards across the sector. - June 11, 2025
