MIRI: Malaysia is grappling with a concerning surge in road accident fatalities, with an average of 6,000 lives lost annually — translating to approximately 19 to 20 deaths per day.
This data, released by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), was highlighted by Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah during the closing of the MyLesen Class B2 assistance programme in Bekenu on Saturday.
A total 698 participants from the Sibuti parliamentary constituency took part in the programme.
“The Road Transport Department (RTD) is thus dedicated to raising awareness among road users about the importance of responsible driving and law adherence,” said Hasbi.
He said ongoing RTD initiatives aim to foster a culture of compliance and prudence among Malaysian road users.
Hasbi noted that RTD’s approach includes a comprehensive range of safety advocacy initiatives — from road safety campaigns to engagement sessions with local communities and stakeholders.
These efforts, he said, are instrumental in encouraging safer behaviour among road users but that their effectiveness ultimately hinges on public cooperation.
“The impact of these initiatives will be limited without the support of road users. I urge all participants of this programme to set an example and inspire others to adopt safer driving habits.”
RTD Sarawak, for instance, has intensified its enforcement activities, consistently launching road safety operations to ensure motorcyclists adhere to existing regulations.
This increased vigilance, Hasbi added, aims to curb the rising number of fatal accidents on the road.
Data from the police underscored the urgency of these measures.
In 2023, Malaysia recorded 6,024 fatal accidents, marking a 9.46 per cent increase from the previous year, which saw 5,671 fatalities.
Also present at the event was Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, who is the Member of Parliament for Sibuti.
