PUTRAJAYA: Comprehensive checks on school buses need to be done regularly to ensure the safety of students.
The authorities need to step up efforts to ensure the buses are roadworthy and stricter enforcement against illegal operators.
National Parent-Teacher Association president Associate Professor Datuk Dr Mohamad Ali Hassan said he had received reports on illegal school buses.
“The drivers are operating without a valid licence and the vehicles do not meet the stipulated standards.
“We do not want untoward incidents to happen to our children. The authorities should get rid of them,” he told the New Straits Times.
He said the authorities should also ensure the bus capacity restrictions were adhered to.
Ali also urged students not to stand when the bus was on the move.
“We have seen overloaded buses where the young passengers have to stand while the vehicle is moving. Some even have to stand near the door.
“By ensuring the capacity restrictions are adhered to, students will be safer and also feel more comfortable.
“The drivers must be fit and healthy. The age limit should be 60.”
Ali proposed that school buses be equipped with first-aid kits, fire extinguishers and safety belts.
He said the authorities should conduct spot checks and the bus school drivers must be certified.
“Drivers should display their training certificates. They should undergo safety training just like lorry drivers.”