12-06-2025
- Automotive
- New Straits Times
Task force calls for transport safety overhaul after deadly lorry crash
KUALA LUMPUR: The Transport Ministry has been urged to consider a series of intervention measures to enhance safety in public and freight transport, with a particular emphasis on heavy vehicles within both the commercial sector and government fleets.
In its preliminary report on the fatal crash involving a Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) truck and a gravel-laden lorry, the Road Safety Investigation Special Task Force recommended greater enforcement of the Land Public Transport Commission's Industry Code of Practice – Safety (ICOP-Safety) among heavy vehicle operators.
"Priority should be given to ensuring full compliance by government agencies and departments with the mandatory use of seat belts in all government-owned vehicles," the report stated.
The task force also suggested that government agencies consider using buses for administrative and non-operational passenger transport, especially for official functions.
Additionally, the ministry is urged to develop a centralised monitoring system for commercial vehicles, incorporating technologies such as the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), dashboard cameras, and real-time tracking systems.
"The installation of dashcams in government vehicles would allow for more comprehensive operational and safety oversight," it said.
The report further recommended expanding the use of data recorders and other monitoring technologies in government-owned vehicles, subject to each agency's operational needs and safety protocols.
On the legislative front, the task force stressed the need to strengthen provisions under the Land Public Transport Act 2010. This includes stricter enforcement of load limits, enhanced licensing and monitoring of operators, and regular safety and maintenance audits.
It also proposed introducing mandatory self-inspection audits among industry players to ensure adherence to maintenance protocols, proper documentation, and compliance with scheduled audits.
"All safety and maintenance records should be kept for at least seven years. A centralised database should be established and made accessible to the ministry, relevant authorities, and industry players in accordance with the provisions of the upcoming Data Sharing Act 2025," it said.
This database should include records on driver performance and health, operator compliance history, and a real-time route monitoring system for heavy vehicles.
The ministry is also encouraged to explore the integration of artificial intelligence in the management and operation of land public transport systems.
Additionally, the task force recommended revisiting the proposal to establish the Malaysian Transport Safety Board (MTSB) as an independent body to coordinate transport-related investigations and formulate safety recommendations.
On May 13, nine FRU personnel were killed in an accident involving a gravel-laden lorry and the FRU truck along Jalan Chikus Sungai Lampam in Teluk Intan.
The victims were identified as S. Perumal, 44; Mohd Roslan Abd Rahim, 46; Mohd Pozli Jaudin, 41; Nurit A.K. Pandak, 34; Amiruddin Zabri, 38; Mohamad Hilmi Mohd Azlan, 38; Akmal Muhamad, 35; Damarrulan Abdul Latif, 33; and Akmal Wafi Annuar, 28.
