GERIK: The Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA) has contributed RM50,000 to the Ministry of Higher Education’s Prihatin Fund to support the families and students of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) affected by the recent bus crash in Gerik. MTA chief executive officer Mohd Radzuan Mohamed announced the donation, which was raised through contributions from corporate entities within the national takaful industry.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Radzuan expressed deep sorrow over the incident and conveyed condolences on behalf of the takaful industry to the affected families. He emphasized the importance of unity and compassion, stating that while the tragedy cannot be undone, the contribution demonstrates a commitment to serving the community. This statement was made during a memorial for the UPSI students held at the Tuanku Canselor Hall.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, State Secretary Datuk Ahmad Suaidi Abdul Rahim, state executive councillor for Education, Higher Education, Youth and Sports Khairudin Abu Hanipah, and UPSI vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Md Amin Md Taff.
Mohd Radzuan also highlighted the involvement of other takaful companies such as Etiqa Takaful, Syarikat Takaful Malaysia, and Hong Leong MSIG Takaful Berhad in contributing to the Prihatin Fund. The fund, which was set up specifically to aid the victims and families affected by the UPSI bus crash, has accumulated RM1.7 million in donations thus far.
He pointed out that 10 percent of the total donations have come from MTA and the directly involved takaful companies, underscoring their dedication to the core takaful principle of mutual assistance and community solidarity.
The tragic accident occurred on June 9, when a chartered bus carrying UPSI students overturned after colliding with a Perodua Alza on the East-West Highway. The crash resulted in the deaths of 15 students and left 33 others injured, including the bus driver, assistant, and four individuals in the Perodua Alza.