15 UPSI Students Lose Their Lives in Gerik Bus Crash, Here's What We Know So Far

A tragic accident occurred early this morning involving a Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) student bus and a Perodua Alza on Jalan Gerik-Jeli near Tasik Banding.

According to reports, 15 students have been confirmed dead in the crash.

Image Credit: NST

At the time of the accident, the UPSI bus was reportedly on its way to the campus in Tanjong Malim from Jerteh, Terengganu. In a statement, UPSI confirmed that 42 of its students were on board the bus when the accident occurred.

According to Professor Dr. Norkhalid Salimin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs and Alumni at UPSI, most of the students involved were returning from Aidiladha celebrations.

A distress call was received at around 1:10 am

In a statement, the Civil Defense Force (APM) said the Banun Disaster Operations Control Centre (PKOB) received the call regarding the incident at around 1:00 am, involving 48 victims.

Upon arriving at the scene, APM personnel found the UPSI bus overturned and the Perodua Alza badly damaged in a roadside ditch.

Image Credit: Malay Mail

Several injured victims were rushed to Gerik Hospital. Thirteen individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries at the hospital.

It was also reported that seven victims are being treated in the red zone (critical), 20 in the yellow zone (semi-critical), and six in the green zone (stable).

PM offers his condolences & orders aid

Image Credit: FMT

NST reported that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed profound sadness over the tragic accident.

He has since instructed the Higher Education Ministry to coordinate the necessary assistance for the families affected by the tragedy.

“My wife, Datuk Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and I are deeply saddened by the tragic accident near Gerik this morning, which resulted in the loss of 15 students. Our heartfelt condolences go out to all the families of the victims. We pray that you find strength and resilience during this incredibly difficult time,” he said.

Featured Image Credit: FMT, The Star