Aziz puts on a new helmet on to a motorcyclist, as Huang (right) and others look on.
SARIKEI: The Transport Ministry views the high fatality rate in road accidents involving motorcyclists in the country very seriously.
According to Deputy Minister Datuk Ab Aziz Kaprawi, on average 12 motorcyclists die in road accidents every year, and this figure accounts for 60 per cent of fatality rate in road accidents nationwide recorded over the past several years.
“The most unfortunate thing is that 70 per cent of deaths recorded among motorcyclists (in road accidents) were youngsters,” he said after officiating at a road safety campaign at Jalan Bank here yesterday.
Aziz also observed that the key factor contributing to such high rate of fatal accidents was human error, which attributed to 80 per cent of total cases.
“In the case of youngsters, the causes identified are illegal racing and reckless riding including speeding past red traffic light.
“(The other 20 per cent are) other causes including mechanical faults and bad road conditions such as the presence of potholes,” he said.
Aziz also urged motorcyclists to properly fasten the buckle of their helmets, on top of wearing them at all times while on the road.
“All motorcyclists must also make sure that their helmets are not broken or damaged. You are more exposed to dangers than car drivers and as such, you must exercise extra care, high level of discipline as well as courtesy every time you’re on the road,” he advised.
On the part of the government, Aziz said his ministry had enforced various measures and strategies to instil positive values and attitude in all road users, particularly the young motorcyclists.
“To parents, I urge you to always remind your children about the importance of practising courtesy and discipline on the road to ensure their own as well as other road users’ safety.”
Earlier, Aziz distributed safety helmets to motorcyclists passing Jalan Bank. He was accompanied by Barisan Nasional candidate for Repok Dato Sri Huang Tiong Sii, Sarikei District officer Khalid Andong, district police chief Supt Mat Jusoh Muhamad and district Fire and Rescue chief Suna Kaha.