SPAD to take stern action against bus driver who abused passenger

The Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) said stern and swift action will be taken against a bus driver who allegedly abused a passenger during a journey from Melaka to Penang last Tuesday (Jan 25).

The commission said it viewed the matter seriously and had been in contact with the passenger to record his statement and to urge him to lodge a police report following the incident.

"Following this, the passenger concerned has filed a police report on Jan 28 at the Balai Polis Melaka Tengah.

"SPAD will continue to provide the police with the necessary support and information about the driver and the express bus operator to ensure stern and swift action is taken against the irresponsible driver for the unacceptable conduct," SPAD said in a statement here today.

A one-minute video recording involving an express bus driver, who abused a passenger, has gone viral on the social media. The driver was said to be outraged at the passenger for sleeping in a space provided for him.

"The Land Public Transport Commission would like to express regret that the passenger involved had to endure such harrowing experience during his journey," it said.

SPAD advised the public who have similar bad experience, to immediately lodge a report to the commision at aduan@spad.gov.my or call their hotline 1-800-88-7723 to enable necessary action to be taken.

"With the right information, we can ensure that irresponsible drivers are swiftly identified and dealt with.

"Additional forms of evidence such as audio or video recordings, or even witnesses contact detail will greatly enhance our ability to bring errant drivers to book," it said.

The commission also reminded express bus operators to closely monitor and discipline their drivers to ensure that they were courteous and provide quality service to commuters at all times.