KUCHING: Express bus drivers, including back-up drivers in Sarawak, and bus drivers from Indonesia, will have their urines tested for drugs.
Sarawak Road Transport Department (JPJ) director Norizan Jili said this will ensure that the drivers are free from prohibited substances which could endanger the passengers’ safety.
He said the operation is being carried out together with the National Anti-Drug Agency (NADA) Sarawak during this Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive season.
“So far, all the drivers have been tested negative for drugs.
“There will be no exception, we will check them all. Previously, we conduct random checks but this time, we want to ensure that there are no fishy incidents.
“Even express buses from Indonesia, will not be exempted. They will also be inspected according to our country’s laws,” he told reporters after a surprise JPJ inspection at Kuching Sentral Bus Terminal this morning.
On another note, Norizan hoped that accidents involving buses will not happen during the festive seasons.
Hence, the JPJ team will also conduct physical inspections on the buses – tyres, brake system, lights, mirrors, reflectors and GPS system – at the bus terminals in Kuching, Sibu and Miri.
“We do not want any unfortunate incidents from happening. So, we need to make sure that the buses are in good condition through this physical inspection.
“That said, I appeal to all road users to get enough rest before going on a long drive, make sure that the vehicles are in tip-top condition and stick to the speed limit,” he said.
