THE government should reassess its current road safety strategies with a sharper focus on driving behaviour, given that many fatal accidents are caused by negligence, drunk driving, and dangerous driving practices, says Road Safety Council member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
“Dangerous driving habits are a key factor in road accidents that claim lives, particularly among heavy vehicle drivers,” he told *BH*. “The rising number of fatal road accidents can now be described as a national tragedy that is both alarming and heartbreaking.”
Lam Thye warned that without immediate action—especially the introduction of a more holistic and improved road safety strategy—there is a growing risk of daily fatal accident numbers continuing to surge.
He stressed that the issue of road user safety must be addressed thoroughly by the government from the perspectives of enforcement, education, infrastructure and real-time monitoring.
“Enforcement is already in place. The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) are doing their jobs, but enforcement needs to be tightened,” he said.
“If there are not enough enforcement officers, then more personnel must be added. And when it comes to issuing summonses, stop offering discounts. Previously, discounts were given to encourage payment, but I believe this policy needs to change.”
He added that penalties must be stringent—not only for drivers but also for vehicle owners and employers, particularly in cases involving heavy vehicles and bus operators. “Employers must be held accountable when accidents occur. They should not escape responsibility or simply blame the drivers,” he stated.
On passenger safety, Lam Thye emphasised that bus passengers must be required to wear seat belts at all times while in the vehicle.
He also proposed several road safety enhancements aimed at reducing the risk of fatal accidents.
“First, impose tougher penalties on negligent and drunk drivers. Second, mandate the installation of speed limiters and dashboard cameras in heavy vehicles. Third, implement real-time monitoring of all commercial vehicles. Fourth, repair problematic road infrastructure, including lighting and signage in dark areas.”
“Additionally, the driving licence issuance process should be made more stringent,” he added.
His comments come in the wake of a tragic accident on the East-West Highway (JRTB) near Tasik Banding, Gerik, Perak, last Monday, which claimed the lives of 15 students from Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI).
The bus, carrying 42 UPSI students from Jertih, Terengganu, reportedly lost control before colliding with a Perodua Alza and overturning. - June 11, 2025
