Malaysian lorry driver awarded US$2,350 after helping stop runaway bus and save 21 passengers
A Malaysian lorry driver who helped stop a runaway express bus near the Menora Tunnel has been awarded RM10,000 (US$2,350) and a special certificate of appreciation. Authorities credited his quick actions with helping prevent a potentially major tragedy involving 21 passengers.
- Malaysian lorry driver Wong Tuck Meng received a RM10,000 (US$2,350) award and special recognition for helping stop a runaway bus.
- The incident occurred near the Menora Tunnel on 15 June and involved a bus carrying 21 passengers.
- Transport Minister Anthony Loke said Wong's actions helped prevent what could have been a major tragedy.
MALAYSIA: Malaysian lorry driver Wong Tuck Meng has been awarded RM10,000 (US$2,350) and a special certificate of appreciation after helping stop a runaway express bus near the Menora Tunnel in Perak on 15 June.
According to a Facebook post by Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke on 23 June, the recognition was presented by the Malaysian Road Safety Council (MKJR) during a ceremony at Parliament.
Loke said Wong's quick actions helped save 21 lives and prevented what could have become a major highway disaster.
Bus lost control while descending hill
According to Loke, the bus was travelling from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur when it lost control while descending near the Menora Tunnel.
Wong, who was driving a lorry ahead of the bus, reacted quickly by positioning his vehicle in front of it to help slow it down and eventually bring it to a stop.
Loke said Wong's intervention prevented the bus from veering off the road.
"Given the terrain at the time, there was a real possibility that the bus could have plunged into a ravine," he said.
Dashcam footage drew widespread attention
The incident first gained national attention after dashcam footage of the incident circulated widely online.
The video, timestamped at approximately 6.26pm on 15 June, appeared to show the express bus descending a slope before striking a roadside guardrail and narrowly missing several vehicles.
Moments later, Wong's lorry moved into position ahead of the bus.
The bus then collided with the rear of the lorry as both vehicles gradually slowed to a stop.
The footage prompted widespread praise online, with many social media users describing Wong as a hero.
Driver says he only did what was necessary
Despite the recognition, Wong previously downplayed his actions.
Speaking to TV3, the 40-year-old father of four said he did not think about his own safety during the incident.
"There was only one thing on my mind — to control the situation and protect the passengers on the bus and other road users," he said.
Wong explained that he continuously sounded his horn to warn vehicles ahead while positioning his lorry between the runaway bus and surrounding traffic.
When praised for his actions, he said he did not consider himself a hero.
"I’m not a hero. I just did what needed to be done. I believe any driver in that situation would have done the same thing," he said.
Public praises bravery and selflessness
The award was widely welcomed online, with many social media users saying Wong had risked his own life to protect others.
Some noted that his actions may have saved more than the 21 passengers aboard the bus, as other motorists on the expressway could also have been involved had the bus remained out of control.
Others praised his quick thinking and selflessness, with some suggesting he deserved even greater recognition for placing himself in danger to prevent a larger tragedy.
Loke said Wong's actions should serve as an example to all motorists, highlighting the importance of staying alert and taking responsible action when confronted with emergencies on the road.
