MIRI: A total of 619 newly licensed motorcyclists have been urged to make road safety a priority as they begin their journey as road users, amid continued efforts to promote responsible riding and reduce road accidents.
The call was underscored during a road safety awareness programme organised by the Sarawak Ministry of Transport for new motorcycle licence holders here.
The programme, held at the main hall of Persatuan-Persatuan Orang Ulu Miri, was officiated by Sarawak Minister for Transport, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
The Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division of the Miri District Police Headquarters (IPD Miri) was invited to deliver the briefing, which focused on equipping new motorcyclists with the knowledge and discipline needed to navigate public roads safely.
The session was conducted by Inspector G. Visvanathan a/l Guna Cekeren, who highlighted the importance of wearing approved safety helmets, observing traffic regulations and adopting defensive and responsible riding practices.
Participants were also cautioned against dangerous behaviour, including speeding, running red lights, using mobile phones while riding and engaging in illegal street racing.
Beyond compliance with traffic laws, the briefing emphasised the importance of personal responsibility among motorcyclists, including ensuring their motorcycles are roadworthy before every journey.
Riders were further encouraged to remain alert to surrounding traffic conditions, exercise consideration towards other road users and prioritise their own safety as well as that of others.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen road safety awareness among newly licensed motorcyclists, particularly those who are beginning to navigate the risks and responsibilities of riding independently.
Also present at the programme were Sarawak Ministry of Transport’s Deputy Permanent Secretary Mohamad Lofti Tuah, Sarawak Road Transport Department’s (JPJ) Director Norizan Jili, JPJ Miri branch chief Nurul Fairezzah Safri, as well as representatives from the participating agencies and organising parties.
The programme is expected to foster a stronger culture of road safety and responsible riding among the new licence holders, contributing towards efforts to reduce road accidents in Miri.
