Kuching: Wong King Yii, Treasurer of Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth (DAPSY) Sarawak has voiced his full support for the Transport Minister Anthony Loke’s proposal to make speed limiters mandatory on heavy vehicles across Malaysia.
“This is a practical and necessary move that can help prevent speeding-related accidents, particularly involving buses and lorries on our highways.
“It is a step in the right direction towards making our roads safer for all,” he said.
This comes in the wake of the heartbreaking bus crash involving Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students, which claimed multiple young lives and renewed national concern over road safety standards in the country.
In a heartfelt statement, Wong also expressed his condolences to the victims’ families.
Road safety is more than just equipment
While praising the proposed legislation, Wong stressed that technology alone will not save lives.
He highlighted a deeper, systemic issue – the need to transform Malaysia’s driver mentality and behaviour.
“Time and again, we have seen how road accidents are not merely caused by mechanical failures or poor road conditions, but by careless and irresponsible driving habits. A major example is the rampant failure to use turn signals when switching lanes or making turns.
“This seemingly minor act of negligence poses serious dangers to other road users and reflects a broader disregard for basic road courtesy and safety. It is time for stronger enforcement of this rule,” he added.
Call for tougher penalties and stronger enforcement
Wong urged the authorities to significantly increase the fines and penalties for failing to signal while turning or changing lanes.
“The current penalties are not sufficient to deter such behaviour and must be revised to reflect the severity of the risk it causes.
“Road safety reform must be holistic. Alongside legislative measures like speed limiters, we must launch sustained awareness campaigns, enhance enforcement of traffic laws, and instil a culture of discipline and responsibility among drivers,” he said.
He added, every driver, whether behind the wheel of a bus, lorry, or private car, must understand that safe driving is not optional, it is a duty.
“Let this tragedy be the turning point that compels us to take concrete steps, not just in policy, but in shaping a safer and more responsible road culture for all Malaysians,” he concluded.
