Hasbi speaking to the media after the inspection. — Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (Dec 21): Federal Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Hasbi Habibollah urged bus operators in Sarawak to closely monitor their drivers for drug use and ensure their buses are in optimal conditions at all times, not just during festive seasons.
He emphasised the importance of keeping drivers free from drugs or other prohibited substances, having spare drivers on board and ensuring drivers remain attentive while driving.
“Don’t take safety lightly. Drivers must not use their phones while driving, switch drivers when covering long distances and maintain safe speeds. If the drivers are found violating these rules, the bus will be stopped and action will be taken — both the bus and company will be held accountable,” he told reporters after inspecting the Christmas Road Safety Campaign at the Kuching Sentral Bus Terminal here yesterday.
On the campaign, Hasbi said it would include deploying undercover officers disguised as express bus passengers to monitor and detect rule-breaking bus drivers.
The campaign, organised by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), and the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (LPKP), aims to increase road safety awareness while ensuring smoother and safer travel for road users during the festive season.
He noted while the campaign was educational in nature, JPJ would enforce laws under the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) and related regulations, taking strict action against traffic offenders.
Additionally, the campaign involves JPJ Sarawak’s operations unit, focusing on advocacy and enforcement activities, including bus inspections at Kuching, Sibu, and Miri terminals.
“Thus far, no bus drivers at Kuching Sentral have tested positive for drugs,” he said, adding the technical inspections of public transport vehicles are prioritised to ensure passenger safety before departure.
He further explained that the campaign’s focus on continuous advocacy and enforcement aims to reduce road traffic accidents, particularly fatal ones.
“This aligns with the government’s aspiration to reduce road traffic fatalities by 50% by 2030,” he added.
Hasbi also expressed satisfaction with the ticketing kiosks set up at the terminal, stating that they streamline ticket purchases and reduce counter queues.
On another note, he encouraged the public to report traffic violations, such as the common practice of making illegal U-turns at ‘P’ turns, which frequently cause accidents. Complaints can be submitted through the MyJPJ e-Aduan app or via email at aduantrafik@jpj.gov.my.