PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) is committed to the safety of motorcyclists, said its director-general Dr Siti Zaharah Ishak.
She was commenting on concerns among motorcyclists after summonses were recently issued by the Road Transport Department for not complying with the use of motorcycle lanes.
Sureshkumar Perumal, 29, from Ampang, said such lanes were perilous and too dangerous to be used.
“I commute about 40km to work daily. The major hazards many motorcyclists encounter stem from poorly maintained and pothole ridden lanes. As a result, we are forced to use car lanes, although doing so also has its dangers.”
Sureshkumar said he avoids using motorcycle lanes, especially at night, due to his brother’s encounter with a robber.
He said there is a need for immediate attention and improvements to guarantee the safety of motorcyclists and to rectify conditions that pose risks to riders.
According to the Malaysia Road Fatalities Index, motorcyclists formed 59% of total road crash casualties between 2010 and 2019.
“It reflects a dire need for comprehensive measures to address motorcycle safety on Malaysian roads, on which seven of 10 deaths involve motorcyclists,” the report stated.
Siti Zaharah said Miros actively addresses poor lighting issues, landscape management and road pavement maintenance based on public complaints.
“The multifaceted approach, which encompasses inspections, assessments, collaborations, education and research, reflects our commitment to creating safer roads.”
She said Miros is collaborating with stakeholders to achieve a reduction of 50% in road traffic fatalities by 2030.
Miros Road Safety Engineering and Environment Research Centre director Dr Muhammad Marizwan Abdul Manan said a study affirmed the effectiveness of motorcycle lanes and data revealed a 74% decline in fatalities with a government benefit-to-cost ratio that is four times higher, adding that the institute plans to take measures and initiatives to address concerns.
“We urge road users to lodge complaints through official channels. Road safety inspections will then be conducted by Miros in affected areas. However, these inspections depend on budget allocations and manpower. Reports are then forwarded to the Public Works Department, Malaysian Highway Authority and local councils for action.”
He also said Miros conducts star-rating assessments on selected high-risk roads, especially high-speed ones such as federal trunk roads and expressways.
“The Malaysian Road Safety Assessment Programme evaluates crash likelihood and severity for all road users, including motorcyclists.
“The safety levels are categorised on a one to five scale and it identifies high-impact countermeasure programmes for road authorities,” he said, adding that Miros engages in various working committees with road authorities.
“With these collaborations, we can focus on proper maintenance of roads and installation of lights and address concerns raised by motorcyclists.”
