MIROS and Volvo Trucks join hands to enhance road safety

In a bid to address the alarming statistics surrounding road safety, the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) and Volvo Trucks Malaysia have joined forces to establish a Memorandum of Collaboration (MOC). This groundbreaking partnership aims to bolster road safety initiatives within the heavy-duty prime movers sector and curb the rising number of road accidents across the nation.

The Royal Malaysia Police have disclosed concerning data indicating that a staggering 60 percent of fatality cases on the road involve lorry drivers and motorcyclists. These statistics underscore the pressing need for concerted efforts to enhance road safety practices and mitigate risks associated with heavy vehicles.

The Memorandum of Collaboration (MOC) between MIROS and Volvo Trucks Malaysia is set to forge a collaborative and cooperative relationship, targeting the implementation of impactful road safety programs, particularly geared toward heavy vehicles. This all-encompassing approach will encompass education, training, and data-driven initiatives, aiming to create a safer road environment for all.

Prominent areas of collaboration unveiled

Under the framework of this collaboration, several key initiatives have been unveiled, promising a positive shift in road safety awareness and practices:

1. Eco-Efficient Truck Driving Championship 2023 (EETC23)

Volvo Trucks Malaysia will serve as a sponsor and technical partner for the upcoming EETC23, a significant event co-organized by MIROS and the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC). This championship aims to encourage eco-efficient driving practices, aligning with the broader goal of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.

2. ASEAN Road Safety Week 2023

MIROS’s ASEAN Road Safety Week 2023 will witness Volvo Trucks Malaysia actively participating and lending its expertise to advocate and amplify road safety awareness to a wider audience. The event will also highlight Volvo’s globally recognized safety campaign, “Stop, Look, and Wave,” emphasizing the shared commitment of both entities to prioritize road safety.

3. Enhancement of Training Programs

MIROS and Volvo Trucks Malaysia are set to collaborate closely to enhance Volvo’s Truck Advance Prime Mover Drivers Training Program, aligning it with MIROS guidelines for effective road safety training. This initiative is poised to equip drivers and fleet managers with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the roads safely.

Commenting on the collaboration, MIROS Acting Director-General, Ir. Ts. Azhar Hamzah, stated, “Earlier this year, we made a commitment to elevate our truck safety features with cutting-edge technology to further enhance our road safety and to work towards a sustainable future by supporting Malaysia’s effort to reduce CO2 emissions to be carbon neutral by 2050.”

The Memorandum of Collaboration (MOC) between MIROS and Volvo Trucks Malaysia heralds a forthcoming era of enhanced road safety in Malaysia. By uniting their expertise, these two entities stand ready to transform the heavy-duty prime movers sector, foster a culture of secure driving practices, and play a pivotal role in diminishing road accidents and fatalities.

“This collaboration with MIROS will play a significant role in our safety commitment and will make a real difference in reducing road fatalities and injuries.” Volvo Trucks Malaysia Managing Director, Tony O’Connell said.