KUALA LUMPUR: Rewarding safe drivers is a positive step towards safer roads, says Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He said the organisation welcomes the Federal Government's proposal to provide lower motor insurance premiums for drivers with good safety records.
"This is a progressive approach that rewards responsible road users and encourages safer driving behaviour.
"For years, road safety efforts have focused largely on penalties and enforcement.
"While enforcement remains essential, there is a need to recognise and reward motorists who consistently obey traffic laws and contribute to safer roads," he said in a statement on Friday (June 12).
Lee said in addition to reduced insurance premiums, several other incentives could be considered like road tax rebates or discounts for drivers with clean records.
He then suggested a 'National Safe Driver Recognition Programme' to honour drivers who remain accident-free and offence-free for many years.
"Other incentives could be in the form of toll discounts or travel credits for responsible motorists.
"There could be incentives for drivers who complete certified defensive driving courses.
"A reward points programmes that allow safe drivers to redeem benefits such as fuel vouchers, vehicle service discounts or other privileges would be beneficial as well," he said.
Lee said there could be special recognition and incentives for professional drivers, including bus, lorry, e-hailing and delivery drivers with exemplary safety records.
"Employer-based rewards for employees who demonstrate safe commuting practices would further encourage safer driving.
"Safe driving should not only help motorists avoid punishment, it should earn them recognition and rewards.
"A balanced road safety strategy must combine education, engineering, enforcement and encouragement.
"By rewarding responsible behaviour, Malaysia can foster a stronger road safety culture and help reduce the tragic loss of lives on our roads," he said.
It was reported on Wednesday (June 10) that motorists who drive responsibly and maintain a clean driving record will pay less for their motor insurance under a new government initiative that uses data-driven risk assessments to reward safer behaviour on the road.
The first phase will offer a 10% rebate to all motorists who purchase motor insurance starting Tuesday (June 9).
For the next phase, the scoring system will determine who gets the rebate, where the percentage may vary, for motor insurance.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the Cermat Madani initiative will reward motorists assessed as low-risk with an additional rebate of up to 10% on their insurance premiums.
He said the rebate will be on top of the existing no-claim-discount (NCD), which may go up to 55%, enabling eligible motorists to enjoy savings of as much as 65% on their premiums.
