JASIN: An aide to the Pakatan Harapan candidate for the Asahan seat was killed when the car he was driving collided with a lorry along Jalan Pondok Batang here today.
J Samivel, 64, who was also Alor Gajah PKR deputy division chief, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The accident occurred in front of the PH Asahan main operations room about noon.
Melaka Fire and Rescue Department public relations officer Mohd Hafidzatullah Rashid said the department received an emergency call about the accident at 12.22pm.
“When the fire and rescue team arrived at the scene, the operations commander reported that the victim was trapped in the driver’s seat of the car.
“He was pronounced dead by Health Ministry personnel. The victim was later handed over to the police,” he said in a statement.
Jasin district police chief Superintendent Lee Robert said investigations were underway to determine the cause of the accident. The victim’s body was taken to the forensic unit of Jasin Hospital for a post-mortem.
Meanwhile, the PH Election Department described Samivel’s death as a great loss to his family, friends, party members and all those who knew him.
The department also expressed its appreciation for his service and contributions, particularly his hard work throughout the state election campaign.
PH chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in a Facebook post, said he was saddened by Samivel’s death.
“As Alor Gajah PKR deputy division chief, Samivel had served the party for many years and remained steadfast in his commitment to the cause. May his service and spirit continue to guide us as we carry on this struggle,” the prime minister said.
PH is fielding P Denesh for the Asahan seat in this state election. He is facing the incumbent, Datuk Dr Fairul Nizam Roslan, in a straight fight.