Gerik: The bus driver involved in the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 15 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students on the East-West Highway (JRTB) near Tasik Banding in Gerik has apologised to all students and families of the victims involved.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Amirul Fadhil Zulkifle, 39, explained that the accident occurred due to a malfunction of the brake system, which caused him to lose control of the bus, resulting in the vehicle crashing into the road barrier. He mentioned that the bus was in good condition at the start of the journey, but when passing the elephant crossing bridge in Gerik, the brakes failed, and the gears could not be shifted.

Mohd Amirul, who started his career as a bus driver in 2016, stated that this was the first time he had been involved in an accident resulting in loss of lives. He expressed his distress and could only apologise to all parties involved, leaving the investigation to the authorities. Mohd Amirul is also awaiting surgery on his left hand, which was broken due to the accident.

He also addressed rumours regarding the death of the bus assistant, Samsudin Hamat, who is his uncle. He clarified that Samsudin, in his 50s, is alive and receiving treatment at the Taiping Hospital.

The incident occurred early yesterday morning when 15 UPSI students died after the bus overturned at KM53 JRTB, near Tasik Banding, Gerik. The bus, hired by students, departed from Jertih, Terengganu, at 9 pm on Sunday and was en route to the university campus in Tanjung Malim, Perak, before the accident occurred.