ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES URGED TO STEP UP EFFORTS TO REDUCE ROAD ACCIDENTS - ANNUAR

SIBU, Oct 12 (Bernama) -- The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Road Transport Department (JPJ) and Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (LPKP) have been urged to intensify enforcement efforts in line with the government’s aspiration to reduce road accident fatalities by 50 per cent by 2030.

Sarawak Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee said the move is also crucial to curb the rising number of road accidents and minimise the resulting economic losses.

“Based on a study conducted by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) in 2024, losses amounting to RM19.7 billion are estimated to be recorded annually due to road accidents,” he said.

He said irresponsible attitudes and failure to comply with traffic regulations remain among the main factors contributing to the rise in accidents that result in property damage.

The text of his speech was read by the political secretary to the Sarawak Premier, Sayed Azmee Wan Junaidi, at the closing ceremony of the Nangka state constituency’s MyLesen B2 programme at the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) Hall here today.

A total of 1,114 participants from the B40 group in the Nangka state constituency have successfully obtained a Class B2 motorcycle licence under the initiative.

All participants underwent the screening process as well as the training and tests set by the JPJ before being awarded their licences.

Annuar, who is also the Nangka assemblyman, said the MyLesen B2 is a strategic initiative by the government to create more opportunities for low-income individuals to obtain motorcycle licences, while cultivating disciplined and responsible road users.

He expressed hope that all participants would support the government’s efforts by setting a good example for other motorists.

“Indirectly, we can help build a culture of courtesy, consideration and safety among motorists,” he said.

-- BERNAMA