MALAYSIA’S road accident death rate is the third highest in Asia and matches those of some African countries.
The World Health Organisation’s 2013 statistics stated that Malaysia was among the emerging countries with the riskiest roads after Thailand and South Africa.
Malaysia registered a death rate of 23 per 100,000 population. Based on these statistics against the estimated population of 30 million, 7,000 to 8,000 people in the country die on the roads every year.
Motorcyclists are the biggest culprits and victims. They account for two-thirds of road crash fatalities. And the majority are teenagers.
Researchers say motorcycle crashes are caused by riding carelessly, speeding, beating traffic lights and manoeuvring dangerous turns.
The government, through laws and taxes, should limit the type and number of motorcycles on the road. A country of 30 million does not need 15 million motorcycles.
Another measure is more stringent rider licensing.
Motorcyclists’ behaviour is positively moulded at the very onset by learning and strict testing. Driving schools and government testers are in the spotlight here.
Perhaps a performance assessment is due. The exercise could product shocking results.
Correct behaviour of licensed riders can be maintained through enforcement of traffic rules.
Another performance assessment may explain why the authorities have failed in these regard. Motorcyclists not only speed unchallenged, they also dash through every stretch, including streets, zebra crossings, dividers, walkways and five-foot ways.
Is it any surprise that the term kopi-O licence is well known?
Another measure is traffic- calming measures, like speed humps and speed tables, to reduce vehicle speed.
These are simple measures that can save lives. They should be at every junction and access point.
Public funds are spent on the Road Safety Department and Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research. Other Asean countries do not have such dedicated agencies, yet Malaysia produces some of the worst road death figures in the region.
The Social Security Organisation pays out millions of ringgit to accident victims and the next of kin for commuting accidents, most of which involve motorcycles.
There must be strict enforcement.
The Global Status Report on Road Safety said: “Road safety is no accident. It requires strong political will and concerted, sustained efforts across a range of sectors.”
If Malaysia aspires to be a high-income and developed country, people should be able to walk in its cities in safety and comfort.
GEORGE THOMAS
Kuala Lumpur