2025 Gerik bus crash
{{Short description|Bus accident in Perak, Malaysia}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2025}}
{{Infobox public transit accident
| name = 2025 Gerik bus crash
| image = {{Location map|Malaysia Perak|lat_deg=5.5809|lon_deg=101.4570|label=Crash site}}
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| coordinates = {{coord|5.5809217|101.4570077|type:event|display=inline,title}}
| date = {{Start date|2025|06|09|df=y}}
| time = {{circa}} 01:00 (MST)
| location = East–West Highway, Banun, near Banding Lake, Gerik, Perak, Malaysia
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| type = Collision
| cause = Suspected human error or road condition (preliminary report; under investigation)
| bus =
| trains =
| vehicles = 2 (1 bus and 1 MPV)
| passengers = 46 (42 on bus, 4 in the MPV)
| crew =2 (bus)
| pedestrians =
| deaths = 15
| injuries = 33
| missing =
| damage = Severe damage to both vehicles
| property =
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On 9 June 2025, 15 students from Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) were killed and 33 others injured when a privately chartered bus collided with an MPV along the East–West Highway near Gerik, Perak, Malaysia.{{cite news|url=https://www.bharian.com.my/berita/nasional/2025/06/1406496/nahas-bas-pelajar-upsi-15-mangsa-cedera-masih-di-hospital-18-dibenar|title=Nahas bas pelajar UPSI: 15 mangsa cedera masih di hospital, 18 dibenar pulang - JKN Perak|date=10 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|language=ms|first=Latifah|last=Arifin|work=Berita Harian}} The bus was returning to the university's campus in Tanjong Malim after the Eid al-Adha holiday break. The incident was the deadliest road accident in Malaysia since the 2013 Genting Highlands bus crash.
Preliminary findings from investigations suggested human error or road conditions as likely factors for the crash.{{cite news|url=https://www.astroawani.com/berita-malaysia/kemalangan-bas-upsi-tiada-bukti-sistem-mekanikal-gagal-mungkin-disebabkan-manusia-jalan-laporan-awal-525055|title=Kemalangan bas UPSI: Tiada bukti sistem mekanikal gagal, mungkin disebabkan manusia, jalan - Laporan awal|date=14 June 2025|accessdate=14 June 2025|language=ms|work=Astro Awani|first=Umavathi|last=Ramayah}} The bus driver, a 39-year old man, was charged in court with 15 counts of dangerous driving and one count of reckless driving, although he pleaded not guilty. The crash generated significant public discourse in Malaysia, with public figures and citizens across the nation expressing their condolences.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-09 |title=Gerik bus tragedy deadliest crash in over 10 years |url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/06/09/gerik-bus-tragedy-deadliest-crash-in-over-10-years |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=Free Malaysia Today}}
Background
= East–West Highway =
{{main|East–West Highway (Malaysia)}}
The East-West Highway along Gerik, Perak, is a two-lane road without a central divider along most of its length.{{cite news|url=https://www.hmetro.com.my/mutakhir/2025/06/1228460/jalan-raya-timur-barat-perlu-naik-taraf-demi-keselamatan-pengguna|title=Jalan Raya Timur Barat perlu naik taraf demi keselamatan pengguna|date=10 June 2025|accessdate=11 June 2025|language=ms|work=Harian Metro|author=Nurul Hidayah Bahaudin}} It passes through hilly terrain and dense forest,{{cite news|url=https://www.sinarharian.com.my/article/695838/berita/nasional/jrtb-pisahkan-laluan-hidupan-liar-cari-makanan-habitat|title=JRTB pisahkan laluan hidupan liar cari makanan, habitat|date=11 November 2024|accessdate=24 June 2025|author=Siti Zubaidah Zakaraya|work=Sinar Harian|language=ms}} with sharp bends and steep gradients.{{cite news|url=https://www.utusan.com.my/berita/2025/06/jauh-berbukit-cabaran-bomba-di-jrtb|title=Jauh, berbukit cabaran bomba di JRTB|date=16 June 2025|accessdate=24 June 2025|work=Utusan Malaysia|first=Fadzil|last=Zainol|language=ms}} The area frequently experiences thick fog and heavy rainfall, reducing visibility and affecting vehicle control. The road is narrow and lacks key safety features such as emergency lanes and climbing lanes. Street lighting is limited, particularly at night and near sharp corners.{{cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/10/solar-streetlights-to-be-installed-on-east-west-highway|title=Solar-powered streetlights to be installed on East-West Highway|date=10 June 2025|accessdate=16 June 2025|first=Manjit|last=Kaur|work=The Star}}
Poor maintenance around the highway further contributed to road hazards, with potholes and overgrown vegetation obstructing drivers' views. Over 70 percent of the highway was reportedly in critical condition. Government resurfacing efforts have been sporadic and do not cover the entire route. The highway's structure, which is nearly 60 years old, shows extensive wear, with most past repairs consisting of temporary patchwork solutions.{{cite news|url=https://www.sinarharian.com.my/article/732830/berita/semasa/lebih-70-peratus-keadaan-jalan-raya-timur-barat-hubung-gerik-jeli-kritikal|title=Lebih 70 peratus keadaan jalan raya Timur-Barat hubung Gerik-Jeli kritikal|author=Siti Noor Faezah Muda|date=9 June 2025|accessdate=11 June 2025|language=ms|work=Sinar Harian}}
In 2023, the road was officially identified as requiring major upgrading and rehabilitation. In June, the government, through the Ministry of Works, allocated RM30 million for reconstruction efforts. This was followed by an additional RM30 million announced by prime minister Anwar Ibrahim in August, bringing the total allocation to RM60 million.{{cite news |date=24 August 2023 |title=Peruntukan tambahan RM30 juta naik taraf laluan Gerik-Jeli |url=https://www.buletintv3.my/nasional/peruntukan-tambahan-rm30-juta-naik-taraf-laluan-gerik-jeli |accessdate=12 June 2025 |work=Bernama |language=ms}} Of this, RM55.73 million was used for phased upgrading works between July and August 2023. These included resurfacing, bridge repairs, and improvements to street lighting and traffic signals in critical areas, based on a pavement condition assessment.
In 2024, a further RM7.2 million was allocated for continued repair works at other sections of the highway.{{cite news|url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/bahasa/tempatan/2025/06/10/lokasi-nahas-upsi-dikenal-pasti-untuk-naik-taraf-tahun-ini-kata-nanta|title=Lokasi nahas UPSI dikenal pasti untuk naik taraf tahun ini, kata Nanta|date=10 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|language=ms|work=Bernama in Free Malaysia Today}}
= The bus and journey =
The bus involved in the crash was a Hino RK1JSLL/J08C-TK tour bus bearing the registration plate PLD 8892, operated by Kenari Utara Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd, a private limited company incorporated in Malaysia in 2008. The company holds a valid license to conduct travel and tour services. The bus was purchased in 2013 and remained legally eligible for use as a tour vehicle for another five years.{{cite news|url=https://www.utusan.com.my/nasional/2025/06/tragedi-pelajar-upsi-dakwaan-pemandu-bas-kejar-trip-masih-spekulatif|title=Tragedi pelajar UPSI: Dakwaan pemandu bas kejar 'trip' masih spekulatif|date=11 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|language=ms|work=Utusan Malaysia|last1=Mat Isa|first1=Fatin Norizati|last2=Ali|first2=Aiman}} It had reportedly undergone routine servicing as recently as May 2025.{{cite news|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/1228054/gerik-crash-bus-was-good-condition-says-operator|title=Gerik crash: Bus was in good condition, says operator|date=9 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|author=Nor Fazlina Abdul Rahim|work=New Straits Times}} However, as it was manufactured before the implementation of post-2020 safety regulations, the bus was not equipped with passenger seat belts.{{cite news|url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/06/10/bus-in-fatal-upsi-crash-had-no-seat-belts-says-loke|title=Bus in fatal UPSI crash had no seat belts, says Loke|date=10 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|work=Free Malaysia Today}}
The journey was privately arranged by a group of students from Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) to return to their main campus in Tanjong Malim, Perak, following the end of the Eid al-Adha holiday break.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-09 |title=Gerik bus crash: Company denies claims lorry driver was hired as back-up |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/09/gerik-bus-crash-company-denies-claims-lorry-driver-was-used-as-back-up |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=The Star |agency=Bernama}} The students had independently chartered the bus for a long-distance interstate trip, which began in Jerteh, Terengganu, on the night of 8 June 2025.{{cite news|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/1227868/updated-bus-chartered-students-not-upsi-says-vice-chancellor|title=Bus chartered by students, not UPSI, says vice-chancellor|date=9 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|author=Zahratulhayat Mat Arif|work=New Straits Times}} A total of 44 individuals were on board the bus, comprising 42 students, the bus driver, and an attendant. The journey was expected to take approximately more than six hours, covering hundreds of kilometres along the East–West Highway.
Crash
{{OSM Location map
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On the night of 8 June 2025, the bus departed from Hadhari Mosque in Jerteh at approximately 9 pm MST. Around 1 am on 9 June, the bus was traveling along the East–West Highway near Kilometre 53 of the Gerik–Jeli stretch when it crashed.{{Cite news |last=Ng |first=Eileen |date=2025-06-09 |title=15 university students die after bus collides with MPV in Malaysia |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/15-die-after-bus-carrying-university-students-collides-with-mpv-in-malaysia |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=The Straits Times}} A survivor reported that the crash occurred when most passengers were asleep.{{cite news |date=11 June 2025 |title='I woke up with a body on top of me': Survivor recounts horror of Gerik bus crash |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/11/i-woke-up-with-a-body-on-top-of-me-survivor-recounts-horror-of-gerik-bus-crash/179901 |accessdate=13 June 2025 |work=Bernama |publisher=Malay Mail}} Before the crash, the driver was reportedly "agitated" and was shouting, managing to avoid several vehicles when it sped downhill.{{cite video |url=https://www.facebook.com/share/r/193NGDcLo6/ |title=… |date=June 2025 |publisher=Facebook}}{{cite news |date=9 June 2025 |title=Gerik bus crash: Driver sounded angry, says survivor |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/09/gerik-bus-crash-driver-sounded-angry-says-survivor |accessdate=13 June 2025 |work=The Star (Malaysia)}}{{cite news |last=Musa |first=Asliza |date=9 June 2025 |title=Pelajar dakwa pemandu 'marah' sebelum bas terhuyung-hayang |url=https://www.utusan.com.my/nasional/2025/06/pelajar-dakwa-pemandu-marah-sebelum-bas-terhuyung-hayang |accessdate=13 June 2025 |work=Utusan Malaysia |language=ms}}{{cite news |last=Adnan |first=Normawati |date=9 June 2025 |title='Saya dengar pemandu bas marah-marah ' - Pelajar UPSI |url=https://www.sinarharian.com.my/article/732946/berita/semasa/saya-dengar-pemandu-bas-marah-marah---pelajar-upsi |accessdate=13 June 2025 |work=Sinar Harian |language=ms}}
Dashcam footage from a nearby vehicle revealed that the bus was speeding and attempting to overtake another car on a dark, downhill and winding section of the road.{{Cite news |last=Kaur |first=Manjit |date=2025-06-09 |title=Gerik bus crash: Road conditions were good but road was dark and winding, says Perak police chief |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/09/gerik-bus-crash-road-conditions-were-good-but-road-was-dark-and-winding-says-perak-police-chief |url-access=subscription |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=The Star}} The driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to flip to the left and collide with the rear of a Perodua Alza MPV that was traveling in the same direction. The impact caused the MPV, which carried four occupants, to spin and swerve into the opposite lane, while the bus veered off the road, struck roadside railings that failed to halt its momentum and overturned near a ravine.{{Cite news |last=Mat Arif |first=Zahratulhayat |date=2025-06-09 |title=Dashcam owner comes forward in fatal Gerik crash |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/1228160/dashcam-owner-comes-forward-fatal-gerik-crash |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=New Straits Times}} Many passengers were violently ejected from the bus, landing in a ditch alongside the road. Witnesses described the crash site as "chaotic and dangerous", with parts of the bus mangled and a risk of fire, which a passing driver attempted to prevent by trying to shut off the engine, though no fire ultimately broke out.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-09 |title='I couldn't switch it off': Samaritan's desperate bid to stop UPSI bus engine |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/09/i-couldnt-switch-it-off-samaritans-desperate-bid-to-stop-upsi-bus-engine/179756 |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=Malay Mail |agency=Bernama}}
At approximately 1:10 am, the incident was reported to the Hulu Perak District Operations Control Centre of the Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM) by Gerik Hospital. Emergency responders from various agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Fire and Rescue Departments from Gerik and Jeli, APM and medical personnel from Gerik Hospital, arrived at the scene few minutes later. Firefighters had to cut open the rear of the overturned bus to rescue trapped passengers, while rescue efforts were hampered by the terrain, darkness, and the position of the wreckage.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-09 |title=Gerik crash: Firefighters cut open bus to free victims, death toll at 15 |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/1227747/gerik-crash-firefighters-cut-open-bus-free-victims-death-toll-15-watch |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=New Straits Times}} Six victims were found inside the bus and were extricated before being handed over to medical personnel for further treatment. The police led traffic control and the initial investigation, coordinating closely with all involved teams to secure the area and provide aid.{{Citation needed|date=June 2025}}
In total, 48 individuals were involved in the crash. Thirteen UPSI students died at the scene, and two more victims succumbed to their injuries later at the hospital, raising the death toll to 15. The remaining 33 people sustained varying levels of injuries and were rushed to Gerik Hospital for urgent medical treatment.{{cite web|title= Senarai nama pelajar UPSI menaiki bas terlibat kemalangan maut di Gerik|url= https://www.mstar.com.my/lokal/semasa/2025/06/09/senarai-nama-pelajar-upsi-menaiki-bas-terlibat-kemalangan-maut-di-gerik|website=MStar|date=9 June 2025|language=Malay|access-date=2 July 2025}}{{cite web|title= Nahas bas pelajar UPSI: 15 mangsa cedera masih di hospital, 18 dibenar pulang - JKN Perak|url= https://www.bharian.com.my/berita/nasional/2025/06/1406496/nahas-bas-pelajar-upsi-15-mangsa-cedera-masih-di-hospital-18-dibenar|website=Berita Harian|date=10 June 2025|language=Malay|access-date=2 July 2025}}
The fatalities of the crash were:{{cite web|title= Senarai nama mangsa korban nahas bas bawa pelajar UPSI|url= https://sinarbestari.sinarharian.com.my/ampArticle/647156|website=Sinar Bestari|date=9 June 2025|language=Malay|access-date=2 July 2025}}{{cite web|title= Gerik bus crash: All 15 deceased UPSI students identified|url= https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/09/gerik-bus-crash-six-students-killed-identified|website=The Star|date=9 June 2025}}
1. Nurul Izyanti Muhamad Azahar
2. Wan Nur Suhaila Wan Muhammad
3. Muhammad Adib Hazim Halim
4. Nurul Fatihah Abu Setaman
5. Muhammad Mustaqim Rosde
6. Nur Ainul Qistina Mat Ali
7. Nur Dalila Farhana Mohamad Isma
8. Nurly Sahirah Azman
9. Sufea Adela Maslihaizan
10. Nik Amni Nadiah Nik Nor Zabir
11. Mohammad Aqil Taqiuddin Mohd Sofian
12. Fatin Nasrien Fadli
13. Nor Ayuni Maslan
14. Anis Soffiyya Md Zaidi
15. Fakhrul Arif Rosdi
Aftermath
By late evening on the day of the crash, all 15 bodies were identified.{{Cite news |last=Mat Arif |first=Zahratulhayat |date=2025-06-09 |title=Identiti 15 pelajar UPSI maut dikenal pasti |url=https://www.bharian.com.my/berita/nasional/2025/06/1406190/identiti-15-pelajar-upsi-maut-dikenal-pasti |access-date=2025-06-10 |work=Berita Harian |language=ms}} Most post-mortems were conducted at Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital in Ipoh,{{Cite news |last=Mat Arif |first=Zahratulhayat |date=2025-06-09 |title=Gerik crash: Remains of UPSI students leave Ipoh hospital |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/1228193/gerik-crash-remains-upsi-students-leave-ipoh-hospital |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=New Straits Times}} with two carried out at Gerik Hospital, where the injured victims received treatment. The four occupants of the MPV survived with less serious injuries and were treated in Baling.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-09 |title=Family of four in MPV survive collision with UPSI bus; driver discharged, wife and kids still hospitalised |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/09/family-of-four-in-mpv-survive-collision-with-upsi-bus-driver-discharged-wife-and-kids-still-hospitalised/179737 |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=MalayMail}} Funerals for all the deceased were held in Jerteh with an exception for a victim in Setiu.{{Cite news |last=Sulaini |first=Nurul Fatihah |date=2025-06-09 |title=14 jenazah pelajar UPSI akan disolatkan di Masjid Hadhari, Jertih |url=https://www.bharian.com.my/berita/nasional/2025/06/1406196/14-jenazah-pelajar-upsi-akan-disolatkan-di-masjid-hadhari-jertih |access-date=2025-06-10 |work=Berita Harian |language=ms}}
= Public reactions and tributes =
The incident sparked widespread public reaction across Malaysia. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims and instructed the Higher Education Ministry to coordinate appropriate assistance.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-09 |title=UPSI student bus crashes with MPV on East-West Highway in Gerik, at least 15 dead; PM instructs Higher Education Ministry to coordinate aid |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/09/upsi-student-bus-crashes-with-mpv-on-east-west-highway-in-gerik-at-least-15-dead-pm-instructs-higher-education-ministry-to-coordinate-aid/179666 |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=Malay Mail}} Higher education minister Zambry Abdul Kadir announced that accommodation assistance for the victims' families was being coordinated with Ungku Omar Polytechnic in Ipoh and Gerik Community College.{{Cite news |date=9 June 2025 |title=UPSI bus crash: Ministry oversees aid for victims as bodies sent to HRPB and Gerik Hospital for post-mortem, says Zambry |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/09/upsi-bus-crash-ministry-oversees-aid-for-victims-as-bodies-sent-to-hrpb-and-gerik-hospital-for-post-mortem-says-zambry/179704 |work=Malay Mail |agency=Bernama}} Zambry also contributed his one month's salary as a gesture of solidarity. UPSI responded by establishing a special operations room to publish updates related to the crash and to handle inquiries from the victims' families and the public.{{Cite news |last=Nizam |first=Fuad |date=9 June 2025 |title=UPSI sets up ops room after tragic Gerik bus crash |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/1227811/upsi-sets-ops-room-after-tragic-gerik-bus-crash |work=New Straits Times}}
On 16 June, the higher education ministry held a Majlis Tahlil Perdana ('Grand Memorial Prayer') to commemorate the victims of the crash. The ceremony was attended by over 1,500 individuals, including the higher education minister Zambry Abdul Kadir, Perak Menteri Besar Saarani Mohamad and chief secretary to the government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar. During the event, more than RM2 million in contributions — collected from various agencies and corporate bodies — were presented to be channelled to the families of the deceased and those who were injured. A special fund, known as "Tabung KPT Prihatin", administered by UPSI, was established to assist the families and victims affected by the crash. As of 16 June, the fund collected RM1.7 million, contributed by over 40 public and private higher education institutions, including polytechnics, community colleges, state government agencies, financial institutions, and corporate entities. The fund was disbursed in stages to eligible recipients and was closed on 20 June.{{cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/17/gerik-bus-tragedy-rm17mil-raised-through-kpt-prihatin-fund|title=Gerik bus tragedy: RM1.7mil raised through KPT Prihatin fund|date=17 June 2025|accessdate=24 June 2025|work=Bernama in The Star}}
Perak's ruler Nazrin Shah emphasised the need for "preventative measures to avoid future tragedies".{{Cite news |date=2025-06-09 |title=Sultan Nazrin calls for preventive action after crash kills 15 UPSI students |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/09/sultan-nazrin-calls-for-preventive-action-after-crash-kills-15-upsi-students/179766 |access-date=2025-06-09 |agency=Bernama}} Religious affairs minister Mohd Na'im Mokhtar described the students as fi sabilillah ('for the cause of Allah') emphasising their status as "seekers of knowledge in the path of Allah, which in Islam is a highly regarded pursuit." Law minister Azalina Othman Said said that "companies as a whole must be held accountable — not just bus drivers — when accidents occur due to managerial negligence or failure to comply with safety standards." She emphasised the need for legislation similar to the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 in the United Kingdom to be introduced in Malaysia, in order to ensure broader corporate accountability, including that of managers, engineers, and board members. According to her, "companies should not place the blame solely on lower-level employees, particularly when those individuals operate under the direction and responsibility of the organisation. Such legislation could help prevent future tragedies and ensure justice is served for victims."{{cite news|url=https://www.thestartv.com/v/companies-must-answer-for-public-safety-failures-says-azalina|title=Companies must answer for public safety failures, says Azalina|date=16 June 2025|accessdate=24 June 2025|work=The Star}}
The crash sparked calls for reform to Malaysia's road safety laws through protests and on social media. Concerns were raised about road infrastructure, with some experts warning that certain road furniture might have worsened accidents. Authorities were urged to adopt safer technologies and upgrade outdated systems. The Fire and Rescue Department also reviewed the need for a new station near the crash-prone route, as existing response times were limited by distance.
Social media platforms such as X were flooded with messages of condolences, with the hashtags #UPSIberduka ('UPSI in mourning'), #TragediGerik ('Gerik tragedy'), #DoaUntukUPSI ('prayers for UPSI'), and #AlFatihah becoming widely used among Malaysian users.{{cite news|url=https://www.tvsarawak.my/2025/06/09/nahas-bas-gerik-anggota-kabinet-pemimpin-negara-ucap-takziah-kepada-keluarga-mangsa|title=Nahas bas Gerik: anggota kabinet, pemimpin negara ucap takziah kepada keluarga mangsa|date=9 June 2025|accessdate=13 June 2025|work=TVS}} Prayer gatherings and tahlil ceremonies were organised at mosques and institutions of higher education across the country. In addition to emotional support, several government agencies, non-governmental organisations and public bodies — including the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) — announced initiatives to provide both moral and financial assistance to the families of the deceased and injured. The student representative council of Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) raised RM290,651 through contributions from 18,927 individuals which was distributed to the families of the victims and the students affected by the crash. UPSI Vice-Chancellor Md Amin Md Taff emphasised the importance of ensuring that students injured in the crash in Gerik are not left behind in their studies and receive full academic support, calling on deans and lecturers to assist the affected students, including those currently receiving treatment in hospital or recovering at home, by making use of the existing flexible learning system. Meanwhile, more than 200 individuals attended the blood donation centre at Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital, following reports of a shortage of blood types A and B. The hospital had appealed to the public to donate blood to help meet the needs of patients involved in the crash.{{cn|date=June 2025}}
Investigation
Following the crash, a multi-agency investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the incident.
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) announced the formation of a special task force to probe the crash in collaboration with the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), the Road Transport Department (JPJ), the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), and other relevant authorities.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-09 |title=Police to form task force to probe fatal UPSI students' bus crash in Gerik, says Bukit Aman traffic director |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/09/police-to-form-task-force-to-probe-fatal-upsi-students-bus-crash-in-gerik-says-bukit-aman-traffic-director/179735 |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=Malay Mail}} Initial investigations revealed that the bus overturned after colliding with a Perodua Alza.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-09 |title=Initial probe finds rear-end collision with MPV caused UPSI student bus to overturn, says Perak top cop |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/09/initial-probe-finds-rear-end-collision-with-mpv-caused-upsi-student-bus-to-overturn-says-perak-top-cop/179713 |access-date=2025-06-09 |work=Malay Mail |agency=Bernama}} Survivors reported smelling a "burning odour" and said that the bus was speeding. The following day, the injured bus driver said that the vehicle's brakes had failed and that he had attempted to avoid hitting four other vehicles before colliding with the MPV.{{Cite news |date=2025-06-10 |title='Saya minta maaf, brek tak berfungsi...' - Pemandu bas |url=https://www.bharian.com.my/berita/nasional/2025/06/1406339/saya-minta-maaf-brek-tak-berfungsi-pemandu-bas |access-date=2025-06-10 |work=Berita Harian |language=ms}}
Transport minister Anthony Loke warned the bus driver not to make premature claims about the cause of the crash.{{cite news |last=Loh |first=Ivan |date=12 June 2025 |title=Gerik bus crash: You have the right to remain silent, Loke warns driver |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/12/gerik-bus-crash-you-have-the-right-to-remain-silent-loke-warns-driver |work=The Star (Malaysia) |publisher=Star Media Group |access-date=13 June 2025}} He emphasised that "the cause of the accident had not yet been established" and that "it could be attributed either to road conditions or driver error". The crash site was reportedly "dark at night and located in a highland area often shrouded in mist". Loke confirmed that a detailed investigation was underway and said that the bus's braking system had already been examined by Puspakom. He cautioned against accepting the driver's statements at face value, saying that "mechanical tests would confirm the validity of his claims".{{cite news |last=Loh |first=Ivan |date=13 June 2025 |title=Bus brakes being checked |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/13/bus-brakes-being-checked |work=The Star (Malaysia) |publisher=Star Media Group |access-date=13 June 2025}} Loke also mentioned that dashcam footage had surfaced showing the bus speeding while overtaking and that an audit of the bus company revealed a failure to meet safety standards.
The driver's prior offences became a factor in the investigation. It was found that the bus driver had 18 traffic summonses; 13 of which were for speeding.{{cite news |date=11 June 2025 |title=Police: Bus driver in crash that killed 15 UPSI students had 18 summonses, 13 for speeding |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/11/police-bus-driver-in-crash-that-killed-15-upsi-students-had-18-summonses-13-for-speeding/179919 |work=Malay Mail |access-date=13 June 2025}}{{cite news |last=Reporters |first=FMT |date=10 June 2025 |title=Bus driver in Gerik fatal crash had 18 traffic summonses, say cops |url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/06/10/bus-driver-in-gerik-fatal-crash-had-18-traffic-summonses-say-cops |work=Free Malaysia Today |publisher=FMT Media |access-date=13 June 2025}}{{cite news |date=10 June 2025 |title=Fatal Perak crash: Police say bus 'clearly speeding', as minister vows 'stern action' |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/malaysia-upsi-bus-crash-perak-students-fatal-speeding-police-driver-5172331 |work=Channel News Asia |access-date=13 June 2025}} The remaining summonses included one for a previous accident, three for failing to wear a seatbelt, and one for a missing third brake light. Meanwhile, the bus itself had 21 traffic offences, with 16 already adjudicated and five still under investigation. According to police, the special task force would conduct a thorough investigation covering the driver's record, background, conduct, and employment history. They confirmed that the charges could be brought against the driver once the investigation is complete.{{cite news |date=12 June 2025 |title=Bus driver in fatal UPSI crash arrested |url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/06/12/bus-driver-in-fatal-upsi-crash-arrested |work=Free Malaysia Today |publisher=FMT Media |access-date=13 June 2025}}
On 11 June, the police had recorded statements from 18 individuals to assist in the investigation. These included 13 surviving UPSI students who had been discharged from hospital, the driver of the MPV involved in the collision, a forensic doctor from Gerik Hospital, the MPV driver's wife (still receiving treatment), and a dashcam owner whose footage went viral.{{cite news |last=Kaur |first=Manjit |date=10 June 2025 |title=Gerik bus crash: Cops record statement of MPV driver |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/10/gerik-bus-crash-cops-record-statement-of-mpv-driver |work=The Star (Malaysia) |access-date=13 June 2025}}{{cite news |date=10 June 2025 |title=Wife, daughter of MPV driver still in hospital, son discharged after Gerik collision with UPSI student bus |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/10/wife-daughter-of-mpv-driver-still-in-hospital-son-discharged-after-gerik-collision-with-upsi-student-bus/179788 |work=Bernama |publisher=Malay Mail |access-date=13 June 2025}}{{cite news |last=Mukhtar |first=Ahmad Mukhsein |date=9 June 2025 |title=Gerik crash: MPV driver and child discharged |url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/1228002/gerik-crash-mpv-driver-and-child-discharged |work=New Straits Times |access-date=13 June 2025}} However, the police had yet to obtain a statement from the bus driver as he remained hospitalised. A remand application would be submitted once he was discharged. Blood samples from the driver had been sent to the chemistry department for analysis.{{cite news |author=Malay Mail |date=10 June 2025 |title=Police to question bus driver after hospital release, remand request to wait |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/10/police-to-question-bus-driver-after-hospital-release-remand-request-to-wait/179797 |work=Malay Mail |access-date=13 June 2025}} Perak police chief Noor Hisam Nordin confirmed that the police were working closely with JPJ, the chemistry department, the public works department (JKR), and the Bukit Aman forensics division to conduct a detailed investigation. The dashcam footage was also being analysed by experts to confirm its authenticity, as the video's quality was unclear.{{cite news |last=Bunyan |first=John |date=11 June 2025 |title=Perak police advise bus driver in UPSI crash to hold off on public comments pending probe; dashcam footage of accident sent for analysis |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/11/perak-police-advise-bus-driver-in-upsi-crash-to-hold-off-on-public-comments-pending-probe-dashcam-footage-of-accident-sent-for-analysis/179940 |work=Malay Mail |access-date=13 June 2025}}{{cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/09/gerik-bus-crash-dashcam-owner-aids-police-probe-with-recording|title=Gerik bus crash: Dashcam owner gives footage to police|date=9 June 2025|accessdate=13 June 2025|work=The Star (Malaysia)|first=Annabelle|last=Lawrence}} On 12 June, the 39-year-old driver was detained after being discharged from Taiping Hospital and would be investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless driving causing death.{{cite news|url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/06/09/cops-probing-fatal-crash-that-killed-15-upsi-students|title=Cops probing fatal crash that killed 15 UPSI students|date=9 June 2025|accessdate=13 June 2025|work=Free Malaysia Today}} The driver, who only sustained injuries to his hand, is scheduled to be charged the following day at the Magistrates' Court in Gerik.{{cite news|url=https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/745947|title=Deadly crash: Bus driver arrested, to be charged tomorrow|date=12 June 2025|accessdate=13 June 2025|work=Bernama|publisher=Malaysiakini}}{{cite news|url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/13/bus-driver-in-gerik-crash-that-killed-15-upsi-students-to-face-charges-in-perak-court-today/180161|title=Bus driver in Gerik crash that killed 15 UPSI students to face charges in Perak court today|date=13 June 2025|accessdate=13 June 2025|work=Bernama|publisher=Malay Mail}}
In a related development, claims circulated on social media suggesting that the operating company, Syarikat Kenari Utara, had hired a lorry driver as a substitute for the bus trip. However, the company denied these allegations.{{cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/09/gerik-bus-crash-company-denies-claims-lorry-driver-was-used-as-back-up|title=Gerik bus crash: Company denies claims lorry driver was hired as back-up|date=9 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|work=Bernama|publisher=The Star (Malaysia)}} The company's operations officer, Mohd Nazri Nawi, claimed that the replacement driver had "extensive experience operating express buses and a clean record free from any criminal or drug-related offences". He said that the original driver was on leave due to family matters, and the company had conducted "thorough screening" before appointing a replacement driver from another bus company.{{cite news|url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/09/we-dont-hire-at-random-upsi-student-bus-firm-denies-claims-it-used-lorry-driver-as-back-up/179759|title='We don't hire at random': UPSI student bus firm denies claims it used lorry driver as back-up|date=9 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|work=Bernama|publisher=The Malay Mail}} That said, preliminary investigations revealed that the company had breached various permit conditions and regulations set by the authorities. Loke revealed that the permit holder had illegally sublet the vehicle permit to a third party without approval and had failed to ensure the vehicle's GPS system was functioning.{{cite news|url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/06/11/permit-for-bus-operator-in-gerik-crash-revoked-says-loke|title=Permit for bus operator in Gerik crash revoked, says Loke|date=11 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|work=Free Malaysia Today|author=Chia Wan Rou}} These were identified as two serious violations of the land public transport agency's permit requirements. The permit owner, registered in Kedah, had leased the permit to an individual from Kelantan for a monthly fee of RM500.{{cite news|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/06/1229464/kulim-tour-bus-company-declines-comment-gerik-crash-killed-15-upsi|title=Kulim tour bus company declines comment on Gerik crash that killed 15 UPSI students|date=12 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|work=New Straits Times|first=Adie|last=Zulkifli}}
As a result of these breaches, the company's operating license and all associated vehicle permits were immediately revoked.{{cite news|url=https://www.nst.com.my/news/crime-courts/2025/06/1229048/updated-permit-gerik-crash-bus-operator-revoked-immediately|title=[UPDATED] Permit of Gerik crash bus operator revoked immediately|date=11 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|first1=Luqman|last1=Hakim|first2=Hakim|last2=Mahari|work=New Straits Times}} On 11 June, police recorded a statement from the company owner, and statements were also taken from 18 other witnesses, including students from UPSI.{{cite news|url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/06/12/owner-of-bus-in-gerik-crash-gives-statement-to-cops|title=Owner of bus in Gerik crash gives statement to cops|date=12 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|work=Bernama|publisher=Free Malaysia Today}}{{cite news|url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/12/police-record-bus-owners-statement-over-fatal-upsi-crash-on-jrtb-highway/180075|title=Police record bus owner's statement over fatal UPSI crash on JRTB highway|date=12 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|work=Malay Mail}} On 12 June, Loke further revealed that the company had failed to comply with all seven mandatory components of the safety inspection and audit.{{cite news|url=https://www.bharian.com.my/berita/nasional/2025/06/1407322/nahas-pelajar-upsi-syarikat-bas-gagal-7-kriteria-wajib-audit|title=Nahas pelajar UPSI: Syarikat bas gagal 7 kriteria wajib audit keselamatan|date=12 June 2025|accessdate=13 June 2025|author=Zahratulhayat Mat Arif|language=ms|work=Berita Harian}}{{cite news|url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/10/transport-minister-wants-bus-firm-audit-study-on-highway-fixes-after-gerik-crash-that-killed-15-upsi-students/179818|title=Transport minister wants bus firm audit study on highway fixes after Gerik crash that killed 15 UPSI students|date=10 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|publisher=Malay Mail|work=Bernama}} These failures included the absence of a safety supervisor, inadequate GPS monitoring of drivers, failure to adhere to driving time limits and rest periods, lack of an emergency response plan, and the absence of a hotline. He instructed the Road Transport Department to open an investigation paper into the company, with legal action pending — including the possibility of prosecuting the company owner for failing to adhere to safety and operational regulations.{{cite news|url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/06/10/transport-minister-pledges-firm-action-as-apad-jpj-investigate-bus-operator-behind-upsi-tragedy/179786|title=Transport minister pledges firm action as APAD, JPJ investigate bus operator behind UPSI tragedy|date=10 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|publisher=Malay Mail|work=Bernama}} Loke emphasised that "even if the operator is not the driver, they still bear full responsibility in ensuring the safe operation of their bus company."{{cite news|url=https://www.astroawani.com/berita-malaysia/kemalangan-bas-upsi-jpj-akan-buka-kertas-siasatan-heret-pengendali-syarikat-bas-ke-mahkamah-524771|title=Kemalangan bas UPSI: JPJ akan buka kertas siasatan heret pengendali syarikat bas ke mahkamah|date=12 June 2025|accessdate=12 June 2025|language=ms|publisher=Astro Awani|work=Bernama}}
On 13 June, the bus driver, Mohd Amirul Fadhil Zulkifli was charged with 15 counts of dangerous driving and one of reckless driving. He pleaded not guilty and was released on RM19,000 bail with conditions including a driving ban. A Puspakom report found no mechanical faults that caused the crash. JPJ later suspended his vocational licence and opened investigations into the bus operators.
See also
References
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{{Portal bar|Buses|Malaysia|Crime}}
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