KUALA LUMPUR – The public perception that “human error” has been conclusively determined as the cause for Monday’s tragic LRT collision is inaccurate, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong a day after pointing out the train hostler was heading in the wrong direction.
In a statement today, he said the human factor is merely a single facet in an investigation of this nature, which also takes into consideration an entire range of technical and operational components.
“The nine-person ministerial-level investigative committee headed by ministry secretary-general Datuk Isham Ishak and tasked to subject matter experts have begun to examine various aspects of the incident, of which the human factor is only one.
“We also wish to remind that a hostler (train operator) involved in the incident had tested negative following a drug test by the Royal Malaysia Police on May 25 (Wednesday).
“This person must be allowed the opportunity to be heard in order to facilitate the investigation without premature judgements.
“Therefore, the investigation committee and I urge the public to refrain from further sensationalising and allow the investigation to be carried out orderly and not be jeopardised by premature judgement in the media and on social media,” said the Ayer Hitam MP.
The investigation, he said, will continue to look into how and why safety barriers were breached which caused the incident, and propose full safety recommendations to prevent such an event from happening again.
“Safety of the LRT transport system as a vital public resource cannot be compromised. Therefore, finding gaps in safety must be paramount.
“In this task, the investigation committee will also seek the views of external parties whose expertise can assist in compiling the final report.”
Having visited Kuala Lumpur Hospital (HKL) together with Federal Territories Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa yesterday, Wee said he was briefed by hospital director Datuk Dr Heric Corray on the condition of the victims under their care.
“The excellent medical care given by the hospital, which involved some 300 personnel of many departments, must be commended.
“A total of 67 persons were treated at HKL, of which 61 have since been discharged. Currently, six persons remain under care with three under critical care.
“We once again convey our deepest sympathies with the victims and their families and wish them a full and complete recovery. The ministry will be in touch with the hospital to stay updated on their progress,” said Wee.
Yesterday, Wee said the driver of the empty LRT Train 40 involved in the underground collision was heading in the wrong direction. He said initial investigations pointed to human error that resulted in the collision.
“It (the error) led the train to end up on the wrong track and collided with Train 81,” Wee said in a virtual press conference.
He added that Train 40 that was supposed to be southbound heading towards Dang Wangi station, had instead taken the opposite direction which resulted in a collision between the two trains. – The Vibes, May 26, 2021
