PETALING JAYA: Mobile speed traps and random checks should be carried out more frequently to deter traffic violations, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye (pic).
The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said harsher penalties too should be handed out to those found guilty of reckless and negligent driving.
“Stricter checks must also be conducted on heavy vehicles to ensure they are roadworthy and that drivers are not overworked or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
“Any vehicle found unfit for the road should be immediately taken out,” he said in a statement on Friday (March 21).
Lee stressed the importance of public awareness and responsible driving culture towards enhancing road safety.
“While enforcement is crucial, fostering a culture of responsible driving is equally important. Campaigns should emphasise personal accountability, safe driving habits, and the devastating impact of reckless behaviour on families and society,” he said.
Festive seasons, he said, should be a time of joy and not tragedy.
“Without stronger enforcement, harsher penalties, and the integration of modern technology, we will continue to witness unnecessary loss of lives on our roads.
“Decisive action must be taken to ensure that every journey during the festive season is a safe one,” he said.
Earlier Friday, The Star reported that someone loses their life in a Malaysian road accident every 1 hour and 56 minutes according to official statistics from March 14, 2024, to March 18 this year.
Even more alarming, a road accident occurs approximately every 50 seconds.
The Star's analysis reveals these sobering figures as the country approaches the Hari Raya holiday season, when millions travel to their hometowns.
