Deputy minister raises alarm on high number of fatal motorcycle accidents

MIRI (Nov 3): The rising number of fatal road accidents involving motorcycles, which makes motorcyclists the most vulnerable group on Malaysian roads, is a concerning matter, says Deputy Transport Minister Malaysia Datuk Hasbi Hasbibollah.

He said that according to the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), a total of 6,024 fatal road accidents were recorded in 2023, a 9.46 per cent increase from the 5,671 cases reported in 2022.

“Motorcyclists made up the highest percentage of these numbers, with 4,489 fatalities involving riders.

“The statistics in Sarawak reflect a similar trend, with 378 fatal accidents in 2023 – nearly 200 of which involved motorcyclists,” he said during the closing ceremony of the ‘P218 Sibuti MyLesen Kelas B2’ programme last Saturday at the Bekenu Community Hall.

“With fatal road accidents in Malaysia averaging around 6,000 deaths per year, roughly 19 to 20 lives lost each day, it is imperative that motorcyclists prioritise road safety and abide by traffic laws.

“The statistics are a reminder to road users that safety measures should not only be taught, but also be put into daily practice,” Hasbi added.

He also said that the ministry plans to run more safety education and affordable licensing programmes in an effort to see a decline in motorcycle-related fatalities.

On the MyLesen programme, which was held from July 6 to Sept 8, Hasbi commented that it has enrolled nearly 700 youths.

He thanked the Sarawak Road Transportation Department (JPJ Sarawak), P218 Sibuti Service Centre, Institute Memandu HiSafe Sdn Bhd, Institut Memandu Batu Niah Sdn Bhd, and other government agencies for making the programme a success.

Also present at the programme was Sibuti MP Dato Lukanisman Awang Sauni, who reminded young motorcyclists to prioritise their safety and abide by traffic regulation, as well as emphasised the importance of responsible riding.

“In light of recent accidents involving young and unlicensed riders, it is crucial to adhere to safety measures such as wearing helmets and obtaining proper licensing.

“Licenced motorcyclists are less likely to flee or feel anxious when encountering police or roadblocks, which is a common fear among unlicensed riders,” he said, urging young riders to appreciate the significance of their licences.

The Deputy Minister of Health Malaysia commended the programme, launched as a governmental initiative to make obtaining a motorcycle licence more accessible to the B40 (low-income) group.

“The programme is part of the government’s effort to ensure that young people, particularly those in rural and semi-urban areas, are able to ride legally and confidently.

“The subsidised fee of RM250 if considerably lower than the costs at many driving institutes, making it an attractive and affordable option for young riders.

“Therefore, local community leaders should encourage youths who have not obtained a licence to take advantage of this initiative that supports mobility in a responsible manner,” he said.

Also present were JPJ Sarawak director Norizan Jili, Subis District officer Norlila Ulis, and JPJ Miri Branch head Fifi Suhesty Asmuni.