In a pivotal move aimed at addressing the nation’s road safety and traffic congestion issues, the Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Traffic Congestion (JKMKKJR) yesterday (December 11) announced an allocation of RM463 million to improve public transport services during their 3rd meeting of 2024.
This allocation, part of Malaysia’s preparations for its role as ASEAN Chair in 2025 and the Visit Malaysia Year 2026, is expected to significantly benefit ordinary Malaysians, enhancing their daily commute and contributing to safer roads.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who chaired the meeting, emphasized that these initiatives were designed with the needs of the public in mind.
The funds, drawn from the 2025 Budget, will support a range of measures to alleviate the challenges posed by traffic congestion, particularly in urban areas like the Klang Valley and northern cities.
By improving public transport options and road safety, the allocation aims to ease the daily travel woes of millions of Malaysians, while encouraging a shift towards more sustainable commuting choices.
Among the key initiatives highlighted in the meeting was the introduction of the Demand Responsive Transit (DRT) service by Prasarana Malaysia Berhad.
Launched in June 2024, this service has already shown promising results, with 20 vans now operating to improve connectivity between the start and end points of journeys.
The average waiting time for passengers has been dramatically reduced from 40 minutes to just 13 minutes, a relief for many commuters who rely on public transport daily.
Additionally, the success of the Special Bus Lanes, implemented since July 2023, was celebrated. These dedicated lanes on busy roads such as Jalan Ampang, Jalan Genting Klang, and Jalan Klang Lama have not only reduced travel times but also improved the commercial speed of buses.
This success is being expanded with new lanes in the Klang Valley and Penang, starting November 2024.
This expansion, which includes roads like Jalan Ipoh, Jalan Cheras, and Jalan Gombak, will see an additional allocation of RM10 million, benefiting daily commuters by offering faster and more reliable public transport options.
A significant decision from the meeting was the mandate for the installation of speed limiter devices on buses under the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) category, effective January 1, 2026. This measure aims to improve road safety by ensuring that commercial vehicles adhere to speed limits, reducing the risk of accidents involving buses.
The issue of road safety remains a pressing concern, with 5,939 deaths reported as of November this year, a staggering number that underscores the urgent need for change.
Motorcycle accidents have been a major contributor, with 4,014 fatalities. The causes of these fatalities, such as personal negligence, careless lane changes, and drowsiness, have been highlighted as critical areas for intervention.
Strengthening law enforcement, improving road infrastructure, and raising public awareness are key components of the plan to reduce these alarming statistics.
A comprehensive study led by the Malaysian Institute for Road Safety Research (MIROS) will also be conducted to gather data and devise strategies for a more effective response to the nation’s road safety challenges.
This study, which will involve collaboration between various agencies, aims to ensure that Malaysia’s roadways become safer for all users, from everyday commuters to commercial vehicle operators.
For ordinary Malaysians, these developments represent a tangible improvement in daily life. With better public transport options, reduced traffic congestion, and safer roads, the allocation is set to make a meaningful difference in the quality of life for millions of people.
This focus on enhancing public transport is expected to not only alleviate the burden on individuals but also contribute to a more sustainable and connected Malaysia as the country prepares for its regional and global responsibilities in the coming years.
Source: Bernama
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