13 deaths, nearly 700 accidents on Sibu roads from January to April
Abang Mohamad Porkan checking a motorcyclist's helmet at the launch of the Sibu Division Road Safety Campaign on May 23.
SIBU: A total of 683 road accidents involving 13 deaths were reported in Sibu between January and April, says Division Resident Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman.
"This is an alarming figure, more than just data – it represents a lost family, a stalled future, and a grief that cannot be replaced," he said at the launch of the Sibu Division Road Safety Campaign in conjunction with the upcoming Gawai celebration on Friday (May 23).
The campaign, which aims to raise public awareness on road safety, involves members of the community, law enforcement agencies, and transport authorities.
Abang Mohamad Porkan, who also chairs the Sibu Municipal Council and the division's Road Safety Council (MKJR), stressed that road safety is a shared responsibility that requires behavioural change among all road users.
'Without a shift in attitude – such as avoiding driving under the influence of alcohol, adhering to speed limits, and refraining from mobile phone use on the road – all our efforts will come to nothing," he added.
Abang Mohamad Porkan also reaffirmed MKJR's commitment to improving road safety through continuous engagement and strategic planning.
Regular meetings with agencies such as the district urban transportation and mobility action committee and the district public transport committee are being held to tackle issues surrounding public transportation and road safety more effectively, he said.
As the festive season approaches, he reminded road users to stay vigilant and responsible behind the wheel to avoid further loss of life.
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