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A lorry driver has been awarded RM10,000 as a token of appreciation for his quick-thinking actions that prevented a serious accident involving an out-of-control bus carrying 21 passengers
The incident occurred near the Menora Tunnel in Perak along the North-South Expressway last Monday, 15 June, when Wong Tuck Meng, 40, manoeuvred his lorry close to the road barrier, allowing the bus to scrape against the rear of his vehicle.
The move is believed to have been a deliberate attempt to slow down and regain control of the bus.
A dashcam recording of the incident went viral, with netizens praising Wong for his bravery and selfless actions.
According to the New Straits Times, Wong received the RM10,000 token and a certificate of appreciation from the Malaysian Road Safety Council (MKJR) during a ceremony at the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, 23 June.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said Wong's actions prevented a potentially major tragedy on the expressway
He added that Wong's quick response should serve as a reminder for all road users to remain alert at all times.
"Earlier today (23 June), while tabling amendments to the Road Transport Act, I highlighted this incident and recorded my appreciation for Wong's courage and life-saving actions in the Parliamentary Hansard.
"As the council's chairperson, I presented Wong with a letter of appreciation and RM10,000 in recognition of his bravery," Loke said.
During a conversation with Wong, Loke said the lorry driver has always remained vigilant on the road and would stop to rest whenever he felt tired.
"Because he was alert, he was able to control his vehicle and respond calmly. This is an important lesson for all drivers.
"Stories like this should be shared widely, and that is why we are recognising his actions to encourage more motorists to remain vigilant on the roads," he said.
Meanwhile, bus driver Ahmad Yasin Ab Malek said that he remained composed during the incident despite feeling anxious after losing control of the bus.
"Although I was nervous because I could not avoid the situation, I tried to calm myself and look for a route with enough space between the vehicles ahead.
"I moved into the right lane and saw the lorry in front of me as the safest option available," he said.
The video of the incident can be found below:
