The boy was seated in the middle of the motorcycle, which was being ridden by his 10-year-old brother, Bernama reported. The other pillion rider is also 10.

Acting Baling police chief Azmi Mokhtar said the accident occurred when the motorcycle exited a junction and was believed to have entered the path of the van, which was unable to stop in time, at 3.30pm.

“The motorcycle rider was thrown into a drain by the road while his younger brother and friend were trapped under the van’s front tyre,” he said.

The seven-year-old was confirmed dead at the scene from severe head injuries while his brother suffered neck injuries and wounds all over his body. Their friend broke his right leg and also had abrasions on his body.

The 26-year-old van driver also had injuries on his hands and feet while his two passengers, aged 46 and 22, did not suffer any injuries.

“The deceased was sent to the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar for an autopsy while the two injured children are being treated at Baling Hospital,” Azmi said.

He said the case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act for reckless driving.