Singaporean tourist dies, 10 others hurt as van plunges into ravine in Penang
Accident occurred on Sunday night, with victims likely to be part of elderly tourist group on vacation
SINGAPORE — A Singaporean woman died while 10 others were injured when a tourist van skidded and plunged into a six-metre-deep ravine in Bukit Genting in Penang on Sunday night (24 September).
Malaysian news agency Bernama reported that the Seri Balik Pulau Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) received an alert about the road accident at 8.20 pm on Sunday, and rescue teams arrived at the scene within 10 minutes.
"On arrival at the location, it was found to be a hilly area where it was impossible for the fire engines to enter," said BBP operations chief N. Prenavaran.
"As such, the firefighters were forced to climb the hill for 15 minutes with stretchers and emergency equipment.
“One woman was found to have died, seven were still trapped in the vehicle while three others were lifted to a safe place with the help of the public."
11 victims involved in Penang van crash
According to Bernama, Prenavaran said that fire personnel had to use special equipment to cut the dashboard and steering wheel of the van to extricate a female victim stuck next to the driver’s seat.
"The operation ended at about 10.45pm after the last victim was removed," he confirmed.
South West District police chief Kamarul Rizal Jenal provided further details, revealing that there were a total of 11 victims involved, consisting of eight women and three men.
Among them, 10 were Singaporean tourists, while the van's driver was a local resident.
The identities of the victims have yet to be established, but they are believed to be part of an elderly group enjoying a holiday in Penang.
The deceased woman's autopsy is scheduled for Monday, and authorities are actively investigating the cause of the accident.
On Monday (25 Sep), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) told Yahoo Southeast Asia that it has been rendering consular assistance and support to the families of the Singaporeans involved in the accident through the Singapore High Commission in Kuala Lumpur.
"MFA extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and wish the injured a speedy recovery," the ministry said in the statement.
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