HELMET EXCHANGE PROGRAMME A PLATFORM TO EDUCATE MOTORCYCLISTS ON ROAD SAFETY - JPJ DG

By Amanina Mohamad Yusof

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 6 (Bernama) -- The helmet exchange programme held in conjunction with the Rancakkan MADANI Bersama Malaysiaku initiative here serves as an important platform to raise awareness among motorcyclists about road safety.

Road Transport Department (JPJ) director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said the department recognises that many motorcyclists and pillion riders continue to use old or worn-out helmets that no longer meet required safety standards.

“This is a major concern for us, the government, and particularly JPJ, as helmets that do not meet safety specifications put road users at serious risk - especially in the event of an accident,” he told Bernama when inspecting the programme’s implementation here today.

Aedy Fadly said a total of 5,000 helmets have been allocated for the three-day Rancakkan MADANI programme, which began yesterday at Dataran Putrajaya. As of today, more than 3,000 new helmets have already been exchanged for old, non-compliant ones.

“The free helmet exchange initiative is being held in conjunction with the third anniversary of the MADANI Government, with JPJ among the agencies directly involved in providing new, high-quality helmets to visitors attending the programme.

“Those interested only need to visit the helmet exchange counter with their MyKad and old helmet. Coupons are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. I was informed that as early as 7 am, people were already lining up for coupons even though the counter opened at 9 am,” he said.

In addition to the helmet exchange initiative, JPJ is also offering early registration for next year’s MyLesen B2 programme, which provides eligible individuals with the opportunity to obtain a free B2 motorcycle licence.

Aedy Fadly said the number of participants for the programme will depend on next year’s government allocation, but preparations have already been made at JPJ offices nationwide to ensure smooth implementation.

“Once the allocation is confirmed, we will begin calling eligible individuals who pass the screening process to participate,” he said, adding that about 25,000 people have benefited from this year’s MyLesen B2 programme.

The Rancakkan MADANI programme features more than 300 people-centric services, career carnivals, interactive exhibitions, family activities and a variety of special offers for the public.

Organised by the Prime Minister’s Office through the Performance Acceleration Coordination Unit (PACU), the programme is expecting around 300,000 visitors and is open from 9 am to 10 pm on Friday and Saturday, and from 9 am to 6 pm on Sunday.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate the closing ceremony at 11 am tomorrow (Dec 7).

The Rancakkan MADANI programme continues the MADANI Government’s tradition of annual public reporting, following the ‘One Year with the MADANI Government’ and ‘Two Years with the MADANI Government’ events held in 2023 and 2024.

Held concurrently is the 2025 National Convention on Public Service Reform, which brings together policy thinkers from the civil service and industry players.

-- BERNAMA