A bus accident occurred in Genting Highlands, injuring a 54-year-old driver and two passengers, aged 74 and a foreigner. The incident took place around 7 PM, and all three sustained minor injuries and were taken to Bentong Hospital for treatment.
Incident Overview
- A bus carrying 25 passengers lost control while descending from Genting Highlands, crashing into a mountain wall.
- The accident occurred at approximately 7 PM at a bend located 12 kilometers down the hill, as the bus was en route to Serdang.
Injuries Reported
- The driver, a 54-year-old local man, suffered minor injuries.
- Two female passengers were also injured: one aged 74, a local, and another who is a foreign national.
- All injured individuals were promptly transported to Bentong Hospital for medical attention.
Official Statements
- Superintendent Zaiham Mohd Kahar, the Bentong District Police Chief, confirmed that no other vehicles were involved in the incident.
- He emphasized the importance of cautious driving, particularly in hilly areas, urging road users to prioritize safety.
Safety Recommendations
- Authorities are reminding drivers to ensure their vehicles are well-maintained and to exercise extra caution when navigating steep and winding roads.
Genting Highlands, a popular tourist destination in Malaysia, is known for its scenic views and vibrant entertainment options. However, the winding roads leading to and from the highlands have also been the site of several serious accidents over the years, raising concerns about road safety in the area.
Historical Context of Accidents
- 2013 Bus Tragedy: One of the most tragic incidents occurred in 2013 when a bus carrying 53 passengers lost control and plunged into a ravine. This horrific accident resulted in 37 fatalities, making it one of the deadliest bus accidents in Malaysian history. Investigations revealed that the bus was not equipped with proper safety features, and the driver had reportedly lost control while navigating a steep descent.
- Frequent Minor Accidents: In addition to major tragedies, there have been numerous minor accidents involving buses and vehicles in the Genting Highlands area. These incidents often occur due to the challenging terrain, which includes sharp turns and steep gradients. Drivers, especially those unfamiliar with the roads, may struggle to maintain control, particularly during adverse weather conditions such as rain or fog.
- Recent Incidents: In recent years, there have been several reports of buses losing control while descending from Genting Highlands. For instance, the incident on June 22, 2025, where a bus carrying 25 passengers crashed into a mountain wall, resulted in injuries to the driver and two passengers. Such incidents serve as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with travel in this region.
Contributing Factors
Several factors contribute to the frequency of accidents in the Genting Highlands area:
- Road Conditions: The roads leading to Genting Highlands are often narrow and winding, with steep inclines and declines. This can make it challenging for drivers to navigate safely, especially in larger vehicles like buses.
- Driver Experience: Many drivers may not be familiar with the specific challenges posed by the highland roads. Inexperienced drivers may struggle to manage their speed and braking effectively, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Vehicle Maintenance: The condition of the vehicles also plays a crucial role in road safety. Buses that are not properly maintained may experience mechanical failures, such as brake issues, which can lead to loss of control.
- Weather Conditions: The weather in the highlands can change rapidly, with rain and fog reducing visibility and making roads slippery. Drivers must exercise extra caution during such conditions.
Safety Measures and Recommendations
In light of the ongoing safety concerns, authorities and transport operators are urged to implement several measures to enhance road safety in the Genting Highlands area:
- Regular Vehicle Inspections: Ensuring that all buses and vehicles are regularly inspected and maintained can help prevent mechanical failures that could lead to accidents.
- Driver Training: Providing comprehensive training for drivers, particularly those who are new to the area, can help them better understand the challenges of navigating the highland roads.
- Road Signage and Warnings: Increasing the visibility of road signs that warn of sharp turns, steep declines, and other hazards can help drivers remain alert and cautious.
- Emergency Response Preparedness: Establishing clear protocols for emergency response in the event of an accident can help minimize injuries and fatalities.
Conclusion
While Genting Highlands remains a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike, the history of accidents in the area underscores the importance of road safety. By addressing the contributing factors and implementing effective safety measures, authorities can work towards reducing the risk of future incidents and ensuring a safer travel experience for all.