Sarawak JPJ launches special Christmas op to ensure express bus safety

SIBU (Dec 20): The Sarawak Road Transport Department (JPJ) is conducting a 10-day special Christmas operation codenamed ‘Ops Khas Krismas’, which started yesterday, to ensure that the public using express bus services would reach their destinations safely.

Its director, Norizan Jili said before the operation began, his department had inspected express buses in Sarawak to ensure the vehicles were safe to use.

According to him, the operation to conduct bus inspections in Kuching, Sibu, and Miri began three days before the start of Ops Khas Krismas, which involved technical aspects including the braking system, tyres, and seatbelts in the driver’s and passengers’ seats.

“This inspection is important to ensure passenger safety, especially during the increased movement expected during the festive season,” he told reporters at the launch of Ops Khas Krismas at the Sibu Bus Terminal here today.

He said the operation focused on areas where accidents frequently occur but the main emphasis this year was on inspections at the main bus terminals in Sarawak, namely in Kuching, Sibu and Miri.

Meanwhile, Norizan also said that the Sarawak JPJ is collaborating with the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) to require all bus drivers to undergo urine tests throughout their operational period.

“If found positive, the driver will be immediately replaced by the operating company. The government is serious about protecting the safety and lives of bus passengers,” he added.

He also urged the public, especially bus passengers, to be the eyes and ears of the authorities by providing information if they detect drivers driving dangerously, using mobile phones or exceeding the speed limit. – Bernama