A RECENT fatal accident in Hulu Terengganu has underscored ongoing concerns over road safety and the effectiveness of monitoring on highways and major roads across Malaysia.
The crash, which claimed the lives of two individuals when their vehicle plunged into a ravine, has drawn criticism from road safety experts who say that lapses in safety procedures and public awareness remain a serious issue.
Road Safety Council member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye expressed concern over the incident, noting that it reflects systemic weaknesses in both safety protocols and the general road safety culture in the country.
“The tragic accident involving the deaths of two people in Hulu Terengganu, after their vehicle fell into a ravine, highlights weaknesses in procedures and the safety culture that has yet to be fully instilled within society,” he said.
According to authorities, the stretch of road where the accident occurred had already been closed due to unsafe conditions, with barriers installed to prevent vehicles from entering the hazardous area.
“So how did the SUV driven by the victims manage to bypass the closure and enter the area?” Lee asked.
He added that the incident demonstrates how safety measures, even when in place, can be easily disregarded.
“This also shows that road closures are sometimes implemented in a makeshift manner, making it easy for the public to ignore them,” he said.
The accident, reported by BH on Friday, involved a Toyota Fortuner carrying a soon-to-be-married couple.
The vehicle plunged into a ravine at kilometre 52 of Jalan Kuala Jeneris-Sungai Gawi–Aring (Bukit Kawah) at around 5.30 p.m. Both victims, teacher Hassan Shazali, 52, and school canteen operator Suzaimah Che Azis, 34, died at the scene due to severe injuries.
Lee emphasised that the tragedy should serve as a sobering reminder for both the public and authorities to remain vigilant regarding road and highway conditions.
“Regular road monitoring must be conducted across our highways and roads. Road experts or representatives from highway management authorities should carry out periodic inspections. Maintenance audits must also be undertaken,” he said.
He urged motorists to remain attentive not only to traffic laws but also to the current state of the roads they traverse.
“Emphasis on safety, with government and society playing complementary roles, is an early intervention to prevent disasters on highways. This is also a way to cultivate a culture of road safety within the community,” he added.
The incident has reignited discussions on the need for improved road safety measures, more rigorous enforcement of closures, and greater public education to prevent future tragedies on Malaysia’s roads. - December 11, 2025
