Pagoh bus crash: Family questions the absence of co-driver

The family of Zakeer Zubri – the driver of the ill-fated bus that crashed in Muar, Johor early Saturday – is seeking explanation from the bus company about the absence of a co-driver during the accident.

One of the family member, Abdul Shukoor Abdul Rahim stressed that the company should come forward to explain especially after Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) had clearly stated that all express busses operators should have co-drivers present for long-haul journeys.

Although a representative from the bus company has met the family yesterday, his family was still unsatisfied until Zakeer’s employer, Goldstar Express (M) Sdn Bhd is ready to come forward and offers an explanation of the cause of the tragic accident.

“There's no stopping us. We will act according to law. Whether the bus was driven fast or there was a problem with the vehicle, we won’t be able to answer until the post-mortem is completed,” said Abdul Shukoor.

He said this after the funeral of Zakeer and his daughter, Nur Natasha Zahra at the Masjid Jamek Hashim Yahya Muslim burial ground at Jalan Perak here today.

Their remains were buried in one burial plot after Subuh prayers at about 6.30am.

Abdul Shukoor also explained that his nephew was an experienced bus driver and had driven a factory bus before joining Goldstar Express three months ago.

He also urged all quarters to form any speculations until investigation is completed.

Abdul Shukoor said his family too, is pained by the misery faced by all the affected families.

In the 3.25am incident, an express bus skidded and plunged off a cliff early Saturday morning in Muar, Johor, killing 14 people including the driver.

The incident, which also injured 16, took place at Kampung Jayo, Jalan Kangkar-Senangah, Pagoh at around 4am on Christmas Eve.

Today’s accident was the worst involving busses since the 2013 Genting Highlands bus crash that killed 37 people.