Operators call for bus, trucking safety reforms
PETALING JAYA: Industry operators have called for comprehensive reforms to improve safety standards in the bus and trucking industry.
Highlighting a gap in the vetting process of heavy vehicle drivers, Malaysia Trucking Federation president Datuk Ng Koong Sinn said operators are unable to check if drivers have a criminal record.
'Usually, traffic offences of a potential hire can be easily checked via the police and Road Transport Department.
'However, we cannot check drivers for past drug use or criminal records. It's essential to conduct thorough background checks,' he said in an interview yesterday.
Some companies that do not adhere to the industry code of practice might resort to reckless hiring practices due to a shortage of drivers, he added.
'If there are no good drivers available, it's better not to run the business. We must be accountable and practise civic consciousness,' Ng said.
All drivers, he added, should go through defensive driving lessons and be capable of handling emergency situations, including brake failure, while on the road.
'Defensive driving lessons are essential but not cheap. Perhaps the government can assist.
'Imagine entrusting a half-million ringgit vehicle to an incompetent driver,' he added.
Pan Malaysian Bus Operators Association president Datuk Mohamad Ashfar Ali said its members practise a stringent hiring process.
'We require drivers to have a full E licence of more than five years, a Public Service Vehicle licence of at least three years, and practical bus driving experience of two years.
'The process includes background checks, interviews, test drives and health screenings.
'Only those who meet our rigorous standards are employed, and they initially work alongside senior drivers to learn the routes,' he said.
Mohamad Ashfar has called for a comprehensive driver card system to track driver movements between companies and ensure that any malpractice is monitored.
'It's a proven method used with taxi drivers and could significantly improve safety standards,' he said.
'We have chartered, school, factory, institution and agencies, tour buses and more,' he said.
He also called for more training given to aspiring drivers, especially those from the B40 group.
'We are short by 5,000 drivers annually, impacting the movement of goods and people, which can dampen the economy.'
He noted that engagement with the Transport Ministry has seen 1,000 training spots offered for free.
'We are thankful for that, but we need more support. We hope the number of spots can be increased. This is crucial for economic stability,' he said.
Mohamad Ashfar said operators need the authorities to collaborate on implementing solutions.
'With the introduction of a driver card system and increased training initiatives, the industry can expect a significant reduction in bus-related accidents,' he added.
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