LETTER | Road safety: The high toll of 7,000 lives

LETTER | As Malaysia marks its 66th year of independence, we pause to consider various milestones – from governance and legal evolution to economic growth and development blueprints, down to the roads beneath our wheels.

Yet, while we have evolved as a motoring nation, our road etiquette seems to have veered off course.

Time to delve into this.

A growing indifference to traffic rules

Our roads pulsate with drivers. Many sidestep traffic regulations with impunity.

This isn't about a handful of errant drivers. It's a pervasive mindset of flouting the rules.

Daily, these transgressors not only risk their lives but also set a perilous precedent for newcomers.

Impacting our youth

Our next generation – our hope – watches and internalises these hazardous driving habits.

Instead of imbibing lessons of caution and respect, they're ushered into an environment where road recklessness and disregard for laws are standard.

This paints a concerning picture of the roads of tomorrow.

Steep Price

The ripple effects of such driving attitudes are alarming.

Beyond the surge in mishaps, Malaysia grapples with a rise in road intimidation, vehicular aggression, and conflicts.

The most sobering fact?

Over 7,000 individuals lose their lives on our roads annually, catapulting Malaysia to an unenviable rank globally in road fatalities.

Embracing the Digital Era

The remedy might lie in harnessing technology. Malaysia should usher in holistic online platforms for all automotive-related procedures.

From simplifying vehicle-related tasks to emulating streamlined online systems like the United Kingdom's Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, we could ensure better regulation and instil a sense of duty and responsibility among drivers.

Prioritising the 'Kejara' Initiative

The 2017-introduced Kejara (or Kesalahan Jalan Raya) is a point-based system designed to penalise traffic violators.

However, since its official launch in 2018, its application has been tepid.

The hour has come to refocus on this initiative, roll out a robust campaign, and not just launch but ardently apply the 'Kejara' mechanism.

A palpable fear of license suspension might finally recalibrate drivers' attitudes towards road laws.

Final Thoughts

Navigating this issue won't be easy. But, fortified with the right tools and commitment, Malaysia can redirect its driving culture towards prudence and reverence.

The looming threat of a driving suspension, hitting the 40 demerits mark, might be the urgent wake-up call we need.

Here's to a safer Merdeka Day.

Cheers to all.

The writer is a practising transport and logistics professional, academician, consultant and company director with over 30 years of experience.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.