Kuala Terengganu: Yayasan Terengganu (YT) is considering forging agreements with reputable bus operators to provide transportation for Persatuan Mahasiswa Anak Terengganu (Permata) members returning to their hometowns during long holidays or festive periods. This initiative aims to ensure the safety of students following a tragic bus crash that resulted in the deaths of 15 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students along Jalan Raya Timur-Barat (JRTB) in Gerik, Perak.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, YT's chief assistant director of higher education, Wan Mohamad Nazir Wan Jusoh, emphasized the importance of the move in light of the recent accident. He noted that the majority of students involved were members of Permata, including both executive committee members and regular members from the Besut and Setiu districts.

Wan Mohamad Nazir stated that discussions on the proposal and other potential improvements would take place at higher management levels and with Permata's leadership. He clarified that the bus involved in the crash was not provided by Permata but rented by the students themselves.

He also mentioned that although the foundation owns buses, they are insufficient to accommodate the approximately 10,000 Permata members across the country. The existing buses are primarily allocated for Imtiaz schools, which have busy schedules and programs throughout the year.

Wan Mohamad Nazir further explained that Permata comprises 21 associations nationwide, including 19 at public universities and two at private universities.