Lorry driver Wong Tuck Meng helped stop a runaway express bus near Menora Tunnel in Perak on June 15, 2026, saving 21 passengers from a potential catastrophe [1, 2, 3, 4].
The bus, traveling from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur, lost control due to a technical fault on a downhill stretch near the Menora Tunnel, an area known for frequent accidents [1, 2, 4]. Wong, 40, used his lorry to slow the bus and steer it close to the guardrail to prevent a crash. This action allowed vehicles ahead to move to safety [1, 2, 3, 4].
Wong repeatedly sounded his horn during the incident to warn motorists in front. "At that moment, I was only thinking about preventing any loss of life. There was still some distance between the bus and my lorry, so I had time to sound the horn to alert vehicles ahead," Wong said [1]. He also noted, "The bus was still a bit far, so I managed to honk to give the cars ahead time to move out of the way" [3]. Wong credited his alertness and habit of resting when tired for his calm response [3, 4].
On June 23, 2026, Wong received a certificate of appreciation and RM10,000 cash award from the Malaysian Road Safety Council at a ceremony held in Parliament. Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook presented the award and praised Wong’s bravery and quick thinking. Speaking in the second reading of the Road Transport (Amendment) Bill 2026, Loke said, "Because of the quick action of one driver, a hero who acted even though it could have put his own life at risk, a tragic accident was avoided, and many lives were saved" [1, 2, 3, 4].
Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr Ramli Mohd Nor also conveyed Parliament’s appreciation for Wong’s courageous actions [1, 2, 3]. Loke added, "His conduct should serve as a model for all motorists. Every driver should remain alert, stay aware of their surroundings and be prepared to take appropriate action to prevent accidents whenever possible" [4].
The Menora Tunnel stretch, where the incident took place, remains a focus for road safety efforts due to its high accident rate [2, 4].
Wong’s recognition comes as the Road Transport (Amendment) Bill 2026 moves through Parliament, with Transport Minister Loke highlighting the importance of vigilance and quick response by drivers to prevent accidents [1, 2, 3].
