JOHOR BARU: The Transport Ministry will call up all public transport operators for a special workshop after the Chinese New Year celebration in an effort to find a solution on road safety management.
Its Deputy Minister Datuk Abdul Aziz Kaprawi said the representatives are expected to give their feedback on safety measures the government should adopt to prevent major accidents such as the express bus crash in Pagoh last December which killed 14 passengers.
"The workshop is likely to be held after the Chinese New Year celebration and we will work on a resolution for an amicable solution to road traffic safety among public transport operators," he said at the launch of a homegrown bluetooth motorcycle helmet at Galeria@Kotaraya.
He said the use of new technology in all public transport sectors will also be further discussed in the workshop.
"We need to sit down and look for a benchmark on safety measures especially on the drivers' handling of vehicles in order to minimise road fatalities," said Aziz.
He said last year, for example, out of 7,000 road accidents involving motorcyclists, almost 5,000 involved fatalities.
"Accidents involving motorcycles are not only caused by the fault of the motorcyclists but also from impact with other vehicles or due to negligence of other motorists'," he said.
Aziz added that authorities will intensify road enforcement during the CNY celebration.
"We will be checking 77 express bus depots across the country within this week to ensure all buses running before and after the festive break are in good working order and safe to travel on long haul trips," he said.
Aziz said special attention will also be given on motorists who uses the emergency lane and offenders will be summoned to court.
He added that those breaking other traffic regulations will be slapped with a maximum compound on the spot.
"This is to ensure that everyone adhere to the traffic law and be wary of others' safety while driving," said Aziz, adding that the government may consider extending beyond the CNY festivity if it is proven to reduce road accidents.