KUALA LUMPUR: It is vital to improve rider and driver training and licensing to boost road safety, said an expert from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.
Associate Professor Dr Nur Izzi Md Yusoff, from the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, said more comprehensive training, mandatory refresher courses, better licensing standards and public awareness initiatives could reduce the number of fatal accidents.
"These improvements can foster a culture of responsible road use, where all road users have the skills and knowledge to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road."
He said this in response to Transport Minister Anthony Loke's recent statement that the number of fatal accidents in the country has not decreased, compounded by the rising number of vehicles on the road.
Nur Izzi said training programmes for motorcyclists need to go beyond basic handling and road safety principles.
"They should focus on defensive riding techniques, hazard perception and how to deal with challenging road conditions, such as rain or poor visibility.
"Riders should be educated on proper safety gear, like helmets, gloves and protective clothing, which are crucial for preventing injuries in the event of an accident.
"As for drivers, they should receive more in-depth training on how to interact safely with motorcyclists and other vulnerable road users.
"Courses should focus on safe passing distance, recognising motorcyclists' needs and respecting their space on the road."
Nur Izzi said licensing procedures must also be improved.
"The current motorcycle licensing process may not be rigorous enough to ensure riders have the skills and understanding of road safety.
"Licensing should include practical tests that simulate real-world traffic conditions, including manoeuvring through traffic, emergency braking and coping with adverse weather conditions.
"More stringent tests for obtaining a motorcycle licence can help ensure only competent and responsible riders are on the roads."
For drivers, he said, the licensing process should include a stronger focus on defensive driving, understanding traffic laws thoroughly and recognising the importance of sharing the road with motorcyclists and cyclists.
"The practical driving test should be more comprehensive, assessing drivers' ability to handle real traffic situations rather than just following basic instructions."
He said both riders and drivers should undergo periodic refresher courses and assessments.
"Periodic refresher courses should be mandatory. This will help reinforce safe driving practices, update individuals on new traffic laws and address evolving road safety issues.
"The courses can be offered online or through in-person workshops, focusing on topics such as driving under the influence, distraction-free driving or safe motorcycle operation."
Nur Izzi said using driving and riding simulators could give drivers and riders exposure to a variety of potentially dangerous road situations, such as adverse weather, nighttime driving and accident avoidance.
"This can be part of the licensing or periodic training process, helping individuals learn how to respond to hazards in a controlled, safe environment.
"More advanced training programmes should be made available to both drivers and riders, focusing on emergency handling skills, advanced defensive driving and accident-avoidance techniques.
"This type of training can reduce the severity of accidents when they do occur, especially by teaching riders and drivers how to react quickly and safely under pressure."
He said more emphasis should be placed on helmet and protective gear use.
"Despite laws requiring helmet use, many motorcyclists still fail to wear them properly or at all.
"Training should emphasise the life-saving role of helmets and proper fitting.
"It should also include the importance of wearing other protective gear, such as gloves, jackets and knee guards.
"Many motorcyclists may not fully understand the importance of comprehensive protective gear, often viewing helmets as the only essential item.
He said as a high proportion of road deaths involve motorcyclists, it was essential that the government take stronger action to enforce these safety measures.
"Not only will stricter regulations save lives, they will also raise awareness about the importance of comprehensive safety gear and foster a culture of safer road use.
"Combined with other efforts, such as improved road infrastructure and better rider education, these measures can make a meaningful difference in reducing the high number of fatalities on Malaysian roads."