According to New Straits Times, in response to the heartbreaking death of a 5-year-old boy left forgotten in a locked school van for hours, the Johor state government has introduced stricter standard operating procedures (SOPs) for school bus and van operators. These measures aim to ensure student safety and prevent such tragedies from happening again.

Johor State Education and Information Committee chairman Aznan Tamin said the new SOPs were jointly formulated by the Johor State Education Department (JPNJ) and the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD).

“These SOPs must be strictly followed by all licensed operators of school transport services,” he emphasized.

Key SOP Measures

Driver and Attendant Management
Aznan explained that vans carrying more than 10 children must have an attendant to ensure all students are accounted for throughout the journey. Additionally, all school bus and van drivers must undergo specialized training that includes child safety, road safety, and first aid skills. “Drivers are also required to undergo health checks and psychological testing,” he added.

Licensing, Inspection, and Vehicle Maintenance
Each vehicle must be licensed, regularly inspected, and maintained in good condition. Safety features such as seatbelts must be checked to ensure proper functioning before every trip.

Child Safety Monitoring
Plans are underway to install alarms or sensors in school buses and vans to detect if a child is left behind inside the vehicle. A final check by the driver and attendant is now mandatory before locking the vehicle doors. “We want to ensure that no child is left behind,” said Aznan.

Attendance Records and Two-Way Communication
Operators are now required to keep accurate attendance records of students boarding and alighting the vehicle. “Any cancellations or schedule changes must be informed to parents or guardians at least one hour in advance,” Aznan stated. The use of CCTV systems or real-time monitoring apps is also encouraged to enhance safety.

Emergency Procedures
In emergencies, such as a student being left in a van, schools, operators, and parents must act immediately, including notifying authorities like JPNJ and the Road Transport Department (JPJ).x

Aznan highlighted that the safety of children requires collaboration from all parties. “Besides the training of bus drivers and attendants, parents and schools must also be proactive in their respective responsibilities for the safety of the children,” he said.

“Everyone must remain alert and take precautionary steps to prevent heartbreaking incidents. Safety is not the responsibility of just one party, it’s our shared responsibility.”

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