KUALA LUMPUR: The government has announced its commitment to enhancing connectivity by upgrading public transport in the Klang Valley.
This is in line with its effort to enhance safety for public transport users.
Ajit Johl, who is the president of the Malaysian Public Transport Users Association (4PAM) non-government organisation, had called for the establishment of a dedicated commission to boost their safety.
He said there was a need for such a commission to review and update public transportation regulations and policies to better serve commuters.
"Revising these regulations is more important than merely upgrading facilities or performing maintenance.
"Public transport users rely on government services daily, and addressing regulatory issues should take precedence," he told the "New Straits Times".
He said there should be dedicated lanes for buses to ensure these vehicles could get past traffic and get passengers on time.
"Dedicated bus lanes are essential, as buses can get stuck in traffic just like other vehicles.
"To have their own lanes, buses can operate smoothly on routes and can help the passengers get to their destinations on time," he added.
Transport consultant Wan Agyl Wan Hassan said the government should focus on key areas when it comes to public transport issues.
He said the government could focus on the public transport timing and frequency to prevent congestion, especially during peak hours.
"Public transport (service providers) should have increased service frequency by 25 per cent on key routes within the next 18 months to help reduce congestion.
"Adding more vehicles to the existing transport fleet would make public transport a more attractive and efficient (option for the public), as it can encourage people to leave their cars at home," he said.
He added that when it came to safety on public transport, it wasn't just about reducing crime, it was also about making the public feel more secure and comfortable in the vehicles.
"Overcrowded trains are uncomfortable and unsafe. Increasing train capacity and reducing overcrowding can ensure everyone has a safer, more pleasant journey," he said.
Meanwhile, the Alliance of Safety Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye has urged the government to identify additional safe locations for constructing pedestrian walkways.
"The walkways should be more user-friendly and convenient for all pedestrians.
"To prevent any vehicle from entering these walkways, pedestrian barriers need to be installed, making them less worried about their safety when using them," he said.
He also called for the installation of escalators or lifts at sky bridges to assist senior citizens with mobility issues.
"If escalators are feasible in train stations, they should also be implemented on sky bridges to ensure the elderly can cross roads safely and comfortably," he said.
Earlier, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said the government was targeting improvements in three key areas: bus services, rail networks, and "first and last mile" connectivity.