We offer our condolences to the families of the aforementioned students
A day that was meant to be filled with joy and anticipation in the lead-up to Hari Raya Aidiladha turned into a heartbreaking tragedy when three students from the Institut Kemahiran Belia Negara (IKBN) in Jitra lost their lives in a road accident. The fatal incident occurred at Kilometer 49.4 of the North-South Expressway heading south from Alor Setar on Thursday.
The accident happened around 2:10 PM as the three victims, all 19 years old, were riding two motorcycles. They were on their way back to their respective hometowns to celebrate the upcoming Hari Raya Aidiladha, which was scheduled to be observed on Saturday. It was supposed to be a joyful return home to reunite with family and take part in one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar. Sadly, it ended in unimaginable sorrow.
Moreover, according to early reports, the victims are believed to have collided with the rear of a Naza Citra car that had stopped on the emergency lane. The impact was severe enough to claim the lives of the three young men instantly, while another friend who was traveling with them sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a hospital for urgent medical attention.
The deceased have been identified as Muhamad Habil Mohd Sobri from Gurun, Muhammad Fahmi Jam from Jeniang, Sik, and Muhamad Arif Aifan Derani from Bukit Selambau, Sungai Petani. All three were said to be close friends and classmates, pursuing their vocational training with hopes of building better futures for themselves and their families.
On top of that, the sudden and tragic loss of these young lives has cast a pall over their families, friends, and the entire IKBN Jitra community. What was meant to be a festive and warm celebration has now become a period of mourning and grief. The bodies of the victims have been taken to the Forensic Department of Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital (HSB) for further examination.
All necessary procedures will take place before releasing the bodies to their respective families for burial. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety, especially during festive seasons when traffic increases and emotions run high. It also highlights the unpredictability of life, where moments of happiness can be quickly overshadowed by tragedy.
We hope this tragedy serves as a reminder to always be vigilant and stay safe when on the road.
