LETTER | I stand in profound solidarity with the people of Malaysia to honour the extraordinary courage and compassion demonstrated by our healthcare heroes during the devastating Gerik bus tragedy.
This heart-wrenching incident, which claimed 15 precious lives from the Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (Upsi) community, tested the resilience of our nation, and the Health Ministry rose with unwavering resolve.
I express my deepest appreciation to Health director-general Dr Mahathar Abd Wahab for his heartfelt public acknowledgement of the Perak Health Ministry response teams. Your leadership has illuminated the unity and humanity at the core of our healthcare system.
Equally, I commend Perak Health Department head Dr Feisul Mustapha for his exemplary coordination during this harrowing emergency.
In moments of profound loss, the true spirit of Malaysia shines through its people. The Perak Health Ministry teams embodied this spirit, working tirelessly under immense pressure to deliver dignity, care, and hope:
Forensic and mortuary teams: Preserving the sanctity of lives lost with reverence.
Medical personnel: Providing critical, life-saving interventions with urgency.
Logistics squads: Ensuring seamless resource deployment across challenging terrain.
Psycho-social support: Mending broken spirits amid unimaginable grief.
Nursing teams and all involved: Your selflessness in crisis defines heroism.
Leadership that inspires
Mahathar’s public tribute reaffirms a vital truth: every role in service - seen or unseen - fuels our nation’s healing. By honouring these frontline champions, the ministry reminds Malaysia that courage is forged in compassion, and strength in solidarity.
To all healthcare warriors of the ministry, you stand where humanity’s light meets its darkest hours. Your sacrifice transcends duty - you are the soul of our resilience. In Gerik, you rose as beacons of hope, proving yet again that Malaysia’s healthcare spirit is unbreakable.
To the families of Upsi’s departed souls: Malaysia mourns with you. To Mahathar, Feisul, and every frontline responder: Malaysia salutes you. Your service is our nation’s greatest strength.
Thank you.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
