KUCHING: Fatal road accidents in Sarawak have increased sharply by 17 cases this year, a development described as “very worrying” by Sarawak Police Commissioner, Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah, ahead of the Chinese New Year travel period.
He said statistics from Jan 1 to Feb 11 recorded 49 fatal accidents compared to 32 cases during the same period last year.
“The increase is a serious concern and we hope enforcement under ‘Ops Selamat’ will help reduce accident and fatality rates,” he said during a press conference held in conjunction with ‘Ops Selamat’ Chinese New Year 2026 at Plaza Merdeka here today.
Zainal said investigations showed that most fatal accidents were caused by driver negligence and carelessness, while a smaller number were linked to road conditions.
‘Ops Selamat’ Chinese New Year 2026 will run from Feb 15 to 20, with enforcement efforts focused on ensuring road safety and compliance with traffic laws during the festive season.
Heavy traffic movement is expected across Sarawak due to the Chinese New Year public holidays on Feb 17 and 18, as well as the anticipated long weekend from Saturday to Wednesday.
Motorists have been reminded to adhere to speed limits, stop and rest when feeling tired and practise cautious driving.
“Biar lambat asal selamat,” he said, urging road users to prioritise safety over speed.
Meanwhile, Zainal clarified that the recent visit by Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, to Sarawak from Feb 8 to Feb 14 was part of a routine working tour.
The visit focused on inspecting border control posts under the General Operations Force (GOF), reviewing facilities and assessing the welfare of personnel stationed in remote areas.
Among the locations visited were Limbang, Miri, Ba’kelalan and Bario with upcoming visits planned for Serian and Tebedu.
He added that there are currently no plans to establish new border posts, although existing temporary tents have been upgraded to cabins, with plans underway to construct permanent buildings to improve working conditions and operational efficiency.
