PUTRAJAYA: Starting January 1, all motorcycles with an engine capacity of 150cc or greater will be required to have anti-lock braking systems (ABS), Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced.
Zahid said ABS can reduce motorcyclist fatalities by 31 percent during accidents, citing World Health Organisation's findings.
"I'm confident this initiative will decrease road traffic deaths in Malaysia and encourage other Asean countries to implement similar measures, enhancing motorcycle safety across the region," he said during his speech at the Conference on Asia Road Safety (CARS) 2024.
He said Malaysia is among the Southeast Asian countries grappling with this issue.
Although the country's traffic death rate per 100,000 population has decreased from 27 in 2000 to 22.5 in 2019, it remains one of the highest in the world, he said.
"We cannot just read these data, and not do anything. In Malaysia, the government has initiated new programmes in different areas to mitigate road accidents.
"Let's start with making motorcycles safer, because in Malaysia, motorcyclists accounted for 65 per cent of traffic deaths last year."
Meanwhile, Zahid said he also proposed that the Malaysian Motorcycle Assessment Programme (MyMAP) under the Malaysian Institute Road Safety Research (Miros) be extended beyond Malaysia to encompass Asean or Asia.
MyMAP is a holistic rating for motorcycles and has so far evaluated 28 models from seven manufacturers by giving star ratings.
The initiative drives the motorcycle industry towards a safety-oriented market benefitting road users, he said.
Road Safety Research Centre head Associate Professor Dr Law Teik Hua said ABS on two-wheelers would differ than those of cars.
"However, we should note that most accidents involving motorcyclists are caused by other motorists, including car drivers.
"So, we will see the extent of which the system will enhance the safety of the riders," he said.
Meanwhile, Traffic and Road Safety psychologist Professor Dr Rozmi Ismail said emphasis should be given on safety attire of motorcyclists as well.
"For instance, a requirement for them to wear suitable jackets while riding and of course, helmets with good quality," he said when contacted.