On the ground: Traffic enforcement department police doing a superbike demonstration during the advocacy on safety aspect on the roads at SMK Anderson Ipoh. — RONNIE CHIN/The Star
IPOH: For the first nine months this year, road accidents have claimed the lives of 779 students aged 18 and below, says the federal traffic police chief.
Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri said this young group constituted 70% of the death toll in road accidents.
“These figures represent heartbreaking losses for families and communities,” the Federal Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director said at a road safety awareness advocacy programme at SMK Anderson here yesterday.
He revealed that most of the motorcycle accidents had occurred between 6am and 10am, with the main causes being tailgating, reckless lane changes, losing control of the vehicle or rider fatigue, among others.
In an effort to reduce the number of fatalities involving motorcyclists, Mohd Yusri said Ops Khas Motosikal was conducted from Aug 12 to Sept 12 across all states and districts.
The recent operation, he added, was also aimed at cutting down road accidents, especially those involving motorcyclists, who were frequently involved in fatal crashes.
“Deaths involving motorcyclists and their passengers saw a 14.7% decrease, with 324 fatalities recorded in 2024, compared with 436 in 2023.
“With the continued enforcement of such operations, the number of accidents and fatalities will further decrease, creating safer roads for everyone,” he said.
On the programme, Mohd Yusri said it was held to raise awareness of the importance of road safety and adhering to traffic laws.
“This programme aims to educate the public, especially students, on how to practise safe behaviours on the road and reduce accidents, through education and training,” he said.Mohd Yusri also said it is crucial for parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities while the youngsters use vehicles (cars and motorcycles).
“They should ensure that the children do not violate traffic laws such as driving without a licence, illegal racing or reckless behaviours on the road.
“We advise all road users to follow traffic laws and regulations to help achieve the government’s goal of reducing accidents and fatalities,” he added.
