Judgment reignites the issue of parental role

SOCIAL media is abuzz with debates on the Johor Baru High Court’s decision to sentence Sam Ke Ting to six years’ jail and a fine of RM6,000 for reckless driving, which resulted in the deaths of eight teenagers in Jalan Lingkaran Dalam, Johor Baru, at 3.20am on Feb 18, 2017, “It’s jail, no bail for mat lajak deaths” (The Star, April 14; online at https://bit.ly/37Nn41I).

We are saddened by the loss of the eight young lives in the tragic incident, and this should be an eye-opener as well as a warning to parents whose children are involved in cycling activities, especially racing at night on modified bicycles (basikal lajak). I understand that these bicycles do not have proper safety features including brakes and lights.

Parents must monitor the activities of their children, particularly those who sneak out in the middle of the night or early morning to satisfy their desire to race!

As a leisure cyclist myself, which I do most mornings for my exercise, I make it a point to check that my tyres and brakes are in good condition, and the front and rear lights are working. I also have a bell on my bicycle.

Strict and regular enforcement should also be carried out by the relevant authorities to stop these activities. As a long-term preventive measure, the relevant authorities should also conduct awareness programmes such as educational talks in schools to students. I am sure these efforts will help to inculcate good values in young children.

It is imperative that the government, families and children alike play their roles to prevent such mishaps from happening again.

DATUK WEE BENG GEE

Petaling Jaya