PORT KLANG: More than 1,400 summonses have been issued nationwide to bus drivers and passengers for failing to wear seatbelts since enforcement began earlier this month, the Road Transport Department (RTD) said.
Director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said today: “Up to July 22, we have issued 1,427 summonses to bus drivers and passengers who failed to wear seatbelts.
“Of the total, 1,123 were passengers found not wearing seatbelts during inspections, while 280 drivers also failed to wear them.”
He said this after touring the Pioneer Coachbuilders assembly plant in Kampung Telok Gong.
Despite the high number of summonses, Aedy noted a growing public awareness and higher levels of compliance since enforcement began.
“This is nationwide data. Given the number of buses in operation, we can see that compliance is improving. People are becoming more aware.
“Bus operators have implemented a standard operating procedure requiring drivers to remind passengers to buckle up before the bus departs.”
Aedy added that RTD operations are ongoing. These include undercover enforcement efforts to observe whether safety protocols are followed.
“Undercover monitoring helps us assess whether passengers and drivers are complying with regulations.
“We’re not just monitoring seatbelt compliance, but also observing driver behaviour and safety matters.”
Tourists are not exempt. “Even if they’re tourists, they are still passengers. We do not make exceptions. Summonses will be issued.”
Since July 1, express and tour bus drivers and passengers have been required to wear seatbelts.
Drivers must ensure all passengers wear seatbelts before the bus departs, and those who fail to comply will be fined RM300.
Aedy said that the rule applies to buses manufactured after January 2020, while older buses will be given time to install seatbelts.
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