Woman killed in Chiang Mai crash was a frequent traveller, often bought gifts for son

A 58-year-old woman identified as Ong Chai Hong, who died in a bus crash in Chiang Mai, Thailand, two days ago, had been to the place several times.

The victim's son, Goh Chia Ho, 30, said the victim, who was a housewife, also bought souvenirs for him every time she returned from her travels.

"But, when I think of the incident (bus crash), I've accepted the fact although of course, I am deeply saddened by her loss," he said.

Chia Ho, a mechanic, was speaking to reporters after receiving a visit from Johor Tourism, Trade and Consumerism Committee chairman Datuk Tee Siew Kiong at his home in Kampung Parit Haji Sidek, here, today.

Besides Chai Hong, Goh's aunt Ong Chui Hoe, 53, was also killed, while his father Goh Bak Chai, 64, and uncle, Teo Tien Chor, 59, were injured in the incident.

Goh, who is the youngest of four siblings, said his mother had phoned him shortly after arriving in Chiang Mai, and had advised him to keep an eye on their home while they were in Thailand.

"It was common for my mother to call me when she arrived at a place she was visiting. I did not think that was last time I would speak with her," he said.

Chia Ho said he had sent his parents to Chiu Travel Sdn Bhd in Jalan Rahmat, here, to join the tour to Thailand, last Thursday.

Three days later, he received news of the crash at about 4pm, through the travel agency.

On Sunday, 13 out of 22 Malaysians, all from Batu Pahat, died in the bus crash which occurred at 11.30am local time (12.30pm Malaysian time).

The bus was reported to have crashed after colliding with a pick-up truck while travelling from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai.