MIRI: Road users are reminded to always prioritise safety and drive responsibly throughout the Gawai Dayak celebration period to prevent accidents that could lead to loss of life.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said most road accidents can actually be avoided if road users are more disciplined, cautious and compliant with traffic regulations.
He said that the Gawai celebration is typically associated with festive gatherings, family visits and social reunions, but road safety should not be taken lightly.
“The Dayak community itself often reminds each other with the phrase ‘udah mabuk tinduk’, which means if you have consumed alcohol, it is better to rest and not drive.
“Do not let a single wrong decision lead to an accident or tragedy that can cost lives,” he said at the Gawai Road Safety Campaign for the Miri Division 2026 held at Shell Permyjaya, here today (May 25).
Based on statistics from the Miri District Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division, Lee said a total of 1,165 road accidents were recorded from January to April 2026, compared to 1,120 cases during the same period last year, marking an increase of 45 cases or four per cent.
He said property-damage accidents rose from 1,091 cases to 1,134 cases, while minor accidents decreased from 13 to 10 cases, and serious accidents remained unchanged at two cases.
“However, what is most concerning is the increase in fatal accidents.
“The number of fatal crashes rose from 14 to 19 cases, while deaths increased from 15 to 20 people, an increase of more than 30 per cent.
“Several accident hotspots have also been identified, including Jalan Miri By-Pass, Jalan Kuala Baram By-Pass, Jalan Persisiran Pantai, Jalan Pan Borneo and Jalan Miri-Airport,” he said.
He added that several “blackspot” areas with frequent serious and fatal accidents have also been identified, including Jalan Beraya along Jalan Persisiran Pantai, sections of Jalan Pan Borneo in the Suai area, and the stretch of Jalan Miri By-Pass from Emart Riam to the Jalan Tanjung Batu traffic lights.
During the campaign, Lee also distributed various road safety items to road users including safety triangles and umbrellas for car drivers, while motorcyclists received helmets, reflective safety vests, and MOTS notebooks featuring road safety messages.
