15-05-2025
Drive responsibly for safety, not just to avoid fines, says S'wak Transport Minister
Lee (seated centre) poses with the guests and participants of the T-ABC programme.
BINTULU (May 15): Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin has urged all road users to take greater responsibility for their personal safety by strictly adhering to traffic regulations – not out of fear of enforcement, but in genuine pursuit of safe road behaviour.
Speaking at the Bintulu Divisional level event of the Transport Awareness Behavioural Change (T-ABC) closing ceremony here today, Lee noted that many drivers only begin to act responsibly upon noticing the presence of enforcement officers.
'We have long promoted a culture of road safety, but the reality on the ground, especially among car drivers, is worrying,' he said.
'It's common to see drivers hurriedly fastening their seat belts or stashing away mobile phones when they realise authorities are nearby,' he said, while questioning the motives behind such behaviours.
'Are you wearing a seat belt for your own safety, or just to avoid getting caught by the authorities? Seat belts are meant to protect you – not merely to fulfil legal requirements,' he added.
He also cautioned that mobile phone use while driving significantly increases the risk of rear-end collisions.
Quoting statistics from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), he noted that rear-end collisions were the leading cause of road accidents in Sarawak during the first four months of 2025, with 2,236 cases recorded.
In total, he said Sarawak reported 6,724 road accidents between January and April this year, resulting in 120 fatalities.
'Another 47 individuals sustained serious injuries, while 102 suffered minor injuries during the same period.
'Investigations pointed to several root causes, including negligent and irresponsible driving, an increase in the number of vehicles on the road, adverse weather, poor road conditions, and challenging geographical terrain,' he disclosed.
He also cited a tragic incident on Jalan Teo Kui Seng in Kuching this year, involving three cars and two motorcycles that claimed five lives including teenagers.
'The 15-year-old driver in that incident was charged under Section 41(1) and 39(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for causing death by reckless driving and driving underage,' he said.
Lee advised parents and guardians to monitor their children closely, warning that underage driving or riding is not only illegal but poses a high risk of severe accidents.
'Many students still ride motorcycles to school without a licence and without wearing helmets, which is extremely dangerous,' he said.
In light of this, he urged students to take advantage of the MyLesen initiative to obtain a subsidised driving licence.
Lee reiterated his ministry's commitment to promoting road safety through education and awareness campaigns and other road safety outreach efforts. drive safe Lee Kim Shin transport minister
