CAP calls for collective action on road safety

In conjunction with Zero Accident Day on 26 August 2024, the Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) has emphasised the crucial role that all road users must play in ensuring safer roads.

CAP has highlighted that, despite the high quality and accuracy of road crash and fatality data collected by the Royal Malaysia Police.

The data, which was recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Bank are of little value unless proactive steps are taken by both the government and road users to enhance road safety.

CAP: Urgent need for infrastructure upgrades

One of the most pressing issues CAP pointed out is the deteriorating condition of Malaysia’s road infrastructure.

Reports indicate that around 60% of federal roads in the country have exceeded their service life and are in dire need of repairs.

Potholes and uneven road surfaces are significant contributors to road accidents, making it imperative for the government to prioritise upgrading these roads.

CAP also underscored the role of overloaded commercial vehicles in accelerating road damage.

In 2008, it was discovered that 27% of the one million registered commercial vehicles in Malaysia were overloaded, leading to the premature deterioration of roads.

These vehicles, which are a leading cause of road wear and tear, are particularly problematic in rural areas, where the damage is most severe.

The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) has also reported that heavy vehicles are involved in 25% of fatal accidents, often due to the extended stopping distances required by overloaded trucks.

Stricter penalties and better public transport

In addition to infrastructure concerns, CAP has called for stricter penalties for traffic offenders, particularly in response to the alarming number of unpaid traffic fines.

A recent report revealed that 41 million traffic fines, amounting to approximately RM4 billion, remain unpaid by offenders from 1990 to June 2024.

CAP suggests that the Royal Malaysia Police and the Road Transport Department should consider refusing road tax renewals to those with outstanding fines and blacklisting foreign nationals from entering Malaysia until their fines are settled.

CAP also highlighted the importance of developing an efficient public transport system managed entirely by the government.

The association noted that the success of public transport hinges on affordability, convenience, regularity, and punctuality.

Once these factors are addressed, the government can implement measures to deter vehicle ownership, such as end-of-life policies for cars over 15 years old and tolls for passenger vehicles entering central business districts.

CAP’s message for Zero Accident Day is clear: achieving safer roads requires the collective commitment of all road users, government authorities, and stakeholders.

By prioritising road maintenance, enforcing stricter regulations, promoting public transport, and holding traffic violators accountable, Malaysia can work towards significantly reducing accidents and fatalities on its roads.

The journey towards safer roads begins with each individual taking responsibility and making informed choices.

As CAP aptly puts it, safety should be a shared priority, ensuring that everyone arrives at their destination without harm.