PUTRAJAYA: The government will be taking various steps to ensure a smooth ‘balik kampung’ experience for all heading back to their respective hometowns this Chinese New Year.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said this will include keeping heavy vehicles off the roads, two days before Chinese New Year and another two days at the end of the celebration.
It is understood that the ban will take effect on Feb 14 to 15 and on Feb 24 to 25.
"This (heavy vehicles ban) has been done before (to reduce accidents and keep the traffic smooth) and we are rolling out a 14-day road safety campaign starting from Friday (Feb 9)," he told reporters after the Cabinet meeting today.
Liow also urged all road users to adhere to the rules and regulations for their safety and to take coffee break at rest areas when they feel tired.
He said the transport industry including airlines and railway services would be providing more flights, additional trips, and extra seats in anticipation of the mass exodus that is expected during Chinese New Year.
"The respective airlines and railway services will make their own announcements on this," he added.
The Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism Ministry, Liow said, has also briefed the Cabinet that there would be no shortage of food and other necessities during the Chinese New Year celebration.
Next week, millions of Chinese will celebrate Chinese New Year on Feb 16 and 17, to usher in the Year of the Dog.
On efforts to ease congestion issues at the Johor Causeway, Liow declined to comment on the matter, saying the Prime Minister would make the announcement in due course.