PUTRAJAYA: Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir has ordered a thorough investigation into the bus mishap that claimed the life of a Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) student.
He said a review of compliance with safety procedures and preventive measures was crucial to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
"UUM has set up two committees to review all aspects, including procedures and related matters.
"We do not take matters involving student safety lightly. On behalf of the ministry, I would like to express my condolences to the family of the student. It was deeply saddening to receive the report," he told reporters at the Higher Education Ministry's Aidilfitri reception here on Monday (April 21).
In ALOR SETAR, UUM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan said the committees were set up to investigate the incident and to reassess the safety standards of the campus bus services.
"The Accident Investigation Committee is responsible for conducting a detailed investigation into the cause of the incident to ensure all aspects related to safety and standard operating procedures are adhered to.
"Meanwhile, the campus shuttle bus service integrity assessment committee is tasked with reassessing the efficiency, regulatory compliance, integrity and effectiveness of transportation management on campus," he said in a statement on Monday.
Mohd Foad expressed UUM's deep sorrow and extended condolences to the family of the deceased.
"UUM shares profound grief with the family of Muhamad Karim. The loss of a student on the path to success is a great loss not only to the family but also to the university and country," he said.
He said UUM has assisted the family in funeral arrangements and has provided support in the form of insurance compensation, bereavement and welfare aid, besides counselling for those traumatised.
A female UUM student was killed last Saturday after she was hit by a bus in a collision involving two buses in front of a bus stop along Jalan Persiaran Perdana, UUM in Sintok.
The victim, who sustained injuries to her body, was pronounced dead after receiving treatment for nearly 10 hours at a hospital. – Bernama
