The East-West Highway (JRTB), which stretches between Gerik and Jeli, recorded 257 road accidents involving 442 vehicles from January to June 2025.
As one of Malaysia’s most challenging routes, known for its sharp bends and steep climbs, the JRTB continues to pose safety concerns. Among the incidents was the tragic June 9 crash that killed 15 students from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI).
In total, 22 people have lost their lives in eight fatal cases so far this year. According to Gerik police chief Supt Abdul Samad Othman, major accidents on this highway often involve multiple victims due to the nature of the terrain and traffic mix. Breaking down the numbers, 287 of the vehicles involved were cars, followed by 55 MPVs or vans, 42 motorcycles, 38 pickup trucks, 17 lorries, and three buses.
Despite the high accident rate, the Public Works Department (JKR) maintains that the highway remains safe and serviceable. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi pointed out that heavy vehicles account for over 30% of the 2,400 vehicles that use the road daily, which adds to the risks.
To address safety concerns, JKR has been working on improvements since 2018. The department identified 16 high-risk blackspots and rolled out various upgrades under a national road safety programme. These include resurfacing works, clearer signage, and targeted blackspot removals.
JKR director-general Datuk Roslan Ismail noted that the focus has been on cost-effective and high-impact safety measures that can be implemented quickly.
