IPOH: A sombre atmosphere enveloped the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital mortuary as family members gathered to mourn those who perished in the tragic accident on the East-West Highway.
With each passing truck bringing the remains of their loved ones, cries and wails were heard as some family members sobbed uncontrollably.
Media personnel were not allowed within the mortuary compound and could only witness the scene from a distance.
Fourteen Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students and one bus attendant were killed in the accident on the East-West Highway in Banun, Gerik, on Monday (June 9) at about 1am.
The bus carrying 42 students overturned while another car with four occupants veered into a ditch.
Mohd Alif Nasnawi, 21, said he had tried to contact two friends who were on the bus since early morning.
The agricultural science students said his friends, Muhd Adib Hazim Halim and Norayuni Maslan, both 21 and from Terengganu, were supposed to arrive at their campus at about 5am.
"After hearing about the accident, I tried calling their mobile phones numerous times, but there was no answer. I was anxious, and my heart broke when I heard the devastating news that they didn’t make it," he said.
"I last spoke to Adib on Friday. I had asked him about buying a shirt for one of our courses. He’s usually quiet, only speaking when necessary," he added.
Alif said it is common for university students, especially those from Kelantan and Terengganu, to charter buses when returning to campus.
"It’s normal, especially after holidays," he added.
When met by reporters, Saarani said support would be available for the affected families.
"I believe this tragedy will leave a lasting impact on them," he said.
UPSI has counselling services available, and I hope they find some comfort and strength in accepting this as part of Allah's will," he added.
Saarani also said that the state government would allocate RM1,000 to each affected family.
"The financial aid is small, but we hope it helps cover basic needs, such as accommodation, food, or other expenses.
"We know not every family is financially well-off, and this is the least we can do to ease their burden," he said, thanking the police for ensuring the victims' remains would be returned to their respective homes.
"That’s all from me," he said quietly, his voice heavy with emotion.
