SIBU, Malaysia — One person was killed and two others injured after a fertiliser-laden lorry collided with the rear of a tanker on a main road in Sibu, Sarawak, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
The tragic accident occurred when a lorry loaded with fertiliser failed to stop in time and rammed into the back of a tanker, causing a violent impact that left the front of the tanker heavily damaged and the lorry partially crushed.
Emergency services, including police and medical responders, rushed to the scene shortly after the collision was reported. Upon arrival, rescue teams found multiple victims requiring urgent attention. The driver of the tanker was pronounced dead at the scene, while two other individuals — believed to be occupants of the lorry — were injured and transported to the Sibu Hospital for treatment.
Medical personnel said that the injured parties were conscious upon arrival and receiving ongoing care, though their conditions were stabilised and reported as non-life threatening at the time of reporting.
Police investigators cordoned off the area to manage traffic and began a detailed examination of the crash site. Officers are interviewing witnesses, reviewing CCTV and dashcam footage, and collecting physical evidence to determine the sequence of events leading up to the fatal collision.
Senior police officials emphasised that factors such as vehicle speed, road visibility, driver reaction time, and load management are all being considered as part of the investigation. Initial observations suggest the collision occurred during normal traffic flow, though further analysis is required.
The tragic accident sparked concern among local residents, many of whom emphasised the need for heightened road safety awareness — especially for heavy-vehicle drivers transporting hazardous or industrial goods like fertiliser. Authorities reiterated safety advice to maintain safe distances, obey speed limits, and ensure proper braking systems on heavy vehicles.
The bereaved family of the deceased has been informed, and police are assisting with post-incident procedures and notifications.
Sarawak traffic police urged motorists to remain vigilant and cautious, particularly on busy highways and during peak travel periods. A full investigation report will be released once authorities have completed their inquiries.
