‘Driver must come forward’: Minister calls for accountability in BDC cyclist hit-and-run

Abdul Karim speaks to reporters after the closing ceremony of Second East Malaysia & Indonesia’s “Born To Perform” Dance Competition held at Borneo Cultures Museum Auditorium on May 3, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 3: Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, has called for the driver involved in the fatal hit-and-run near Jalan BDC to surrender, stressing that the case must not be left without closure.

Describing the death of 56-year-old cyclist Ken Yeo as both tragic and unacceptable, he said the fact that the driver fled the scene makes the incident far more serious.

“The sad part is it is a hit-and-run. Somebody has got to be responsible for the life that is taken away this way,” he told reporters when met after the closing ceremony of Second East Malaysia & Indonesia’s “Born To Perform” Dance Competition held at Borneo Cultures Museum Auditorium here today.

Abdul Karim urged the individual behind the wheel to come forward, warning that authorities would have to intensify investigations if the driver fails to do so.

“We cannot let this thing just go without coming to an end. We want closure to the case,” he stressed, adding that police must pursue the matter thoroughly.

While noting that accidents occur daily, he said this case stands out due to the loss of life and the driver’s failure to stop, raising questions about possible negligence.

“I’m not too sure who the driver is—whether unlicensed or under the influence—but whoever it is must take responsibility,” he said.

On broader safety concerns, Abdul Karim pointed out that while enforcement and infrastructure play a role, immediate accountability in this case is paramount.

He also highlighted that road conditions could be a contributing factor in some accidents, noting that potholes or uneven surfaces may force cyclists to swerve into danger.

Nevertheless, he emphasised that responsibility ultimately lies with all road users.

“Whether you are cyclists, motorcyclists or drivers, you must use the road responsibly,” he said, reiterating that such incidents must serve as a reminder of the consequences of negligence.

On May 1, Kuching District police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu reported a hit-and-run accident along Jalan Stutong at about 5.43am when the 56-year-old cyclist, identified as Ken Yeo, was cycling along the road before being struck from behind by a vehicle whose type and registration number remain unknown.

Preliminary investigations found that the male victim sustained severe head injuries in the crash and pronounced dead at the scene. — DayakDaily