Gerik bus crash: MOT told to define legal subcontracting, end permit abuse

New Straits Times

5 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: The Transport Ministry has been advised to issue official guidelines distinguishing legitimate subcontracting from illegal licence leasing to prevent confusion and exploitation in the industry.
This was among several recommendations in the preliminary report by the ministry's task force on the fatal tour bus crash in Gerik.
"On operational compliance and licensing, it is recommended that the Land Public Transport Agency (Apad) enhance enforcement against the unlawful leasing of operating licences.
"Amendments to licensing conditions should include integrity declarations and clear identification of the licence holder, vehicle, and driver," the report said.
It also proposed introducing a mandatory vehicle body marking system, requiring the permanent and visible display of the operator's licence number on all vehicles for on-ground verification.
Authorities were urged to expedite the rollout of an integrated monitoring system for all commercial vehicles, capable of real-time tracking of driving behaviour, speed, location, licence status, and operational compliance.
The system should incorporate GPS, geofencing, automatic alerts, performance data analytics, and allow for proactive, integrated information-sharing with enforcement agencies.
The report also recommended the development of a unified driver database containing records of discipline, licences, training, and accident history, accessible to relevant agencies and legitimate operators.
"On road infrastructure, the design of road dividers at high-risk locations must be reviewed to ensure alignment with current safety guidelines.
"Speed limit signs, chevrons and bend warning signs should be installed within clear sight distances, and all faded road markings should be repaired or replaced using high-intensity retro-reflective materials to improve night-time visibility," it said.
The installation of Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) cameras at high-risk locations was also suggested to enhance speed compliance.
The report further proposed returning enforcement powers for the land public transport industry to Apad, or re-establishing a body such as the Land Public Transport Commission to coordinate integrated licensing and enforcement.
It also called for the establishment of a Malaysian Transportation Safety Board as an independent investigative body for all modes of transport.
"This would ensure accident investigations are conducted professionally, objectively and consistently, contributing to long-term prevention and holistic improvements in transport safety," it said.
The use of artificial intelligence (AI), the report added, should be promoted in operational monitoring to detect risky driving patterns, predict system failures, and prevent incidents through real-time data analysis.
On June 9, a tour bus carrying 42 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris students from Jerteh, Terengganu, to Tanjung Malim, Perak, collided with a Perodua Alza along the East-West Highway near Tasik Banding, Gerik.
Fifteen students were killed in the crash.
revoked with immediate effect following multiple breaches of permit conditions.