State Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin (centre) and his deputy ministers Datuk Dr Jerip Susil (left) and Datuk Henry Harry Jinep showing the road safety-themed green packets for Hari Raya. - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: Sarawak will ban goods vehicles from the roads during Hari Raya, aligning with the Federal Government's move to ensure smoother and safer traffic conditions.
State Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said the ban would be enforced on specific dates to be announced soon.
"We are working with the Road Transport Department on this, and they will issue the notice.
"A similar ban was also imposed during Chinese New Year. That has always been the practice during festive seasons," he said after announcing a Hari Raya road safety campaign on Wednesday (March 12).
On Monday (March 10), federal Transport Minister Anthony Loke said goods vehicles would be banned from roads on March 29-30 and April 5-6 in conjunction with Hari Raya.
He said the ban aims to prevent congestion and reduce the risk of accidents resulting from the mix of commercial and private vehicles.
Meanwhile, Lee said the state Hari Raya road safety campaign would be launched in Mukah on March 17 to ensure safer journeys for road users during the festive period.
As part of the campaign, Raya green packets will be distributed to reinforce road safety messages.
"Following the success of the ministry's road safety-themed red packets during Chinese New Year, we will introduce a special edition green packet for Hari Raya.
"This initiative aims to raise public awareness about the importance of road safety, especially during the festive season when traffic volume increases significantly," Lee said.
The green packets feature cartoon illustrations of Sarawak's various transportation modes, including roads, rivers, and the state's airline, AirBorneo.
The reverse side of the packet carries road safety messages such as putting on seat belts, wearing helmets, and adhering to the speed limit.
"We want everyone to arrive home safely to celebrate Hari Raya with their families.
"Be responsible road users and exercise extra caution when driving during the festive period," Lee added.
