KUCHING: Sarawak Road Transport Department (JPJ) will intensify its efforts during the Chinese New Year (CNY) period to increase awareness and compliance of traffic rules and regulations among motorists.
Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen said this was to ensure the safety of road users during the festive season, especially considering the increased traffic volume where celebrants are returning to their hometown.
Apart from raising awareness and education among the public, he said, there were also additional measures such as inspections and checks, including urine tests on drivers, unauthorized vehicle modifications, and reckless driving.
“These measures are aimed at reducing road accidents and fatalities. We want everyone to be able to return home safely and celebrate this festive season with their loved ones,” he said.
Chong, who is also the Padungan assemblyman, was speaking to the reporters after attending Sarawak JPJ Road Safety Advocacy programme at Kuching Sentral Bus Terminal here today (Feb 8).
According to a study done in 2011, he said, 80.6 percent of the road accidents were due to human errors while 13.2 percent due to road conditions while 6.2 percent due to vehicle conditions.
Chong said with completion of the Pan Borneo Highway, it is expected that the road accidents can be reduced.
“Therefore, I hope all parties will support JPJ’s efforts to ensure the safety of everyone on the roads,” he added.
Duirng the programme, Chong and other dignitaries also distributed mandarin oranges to passengers at the bus terminal.
Also present were JPJ Sarawak deputy director Noraini Mohd Nawi and Road Safety and Corporate Unit head Christopher Alex Boniface Barau.
