Miri Division Hari Raya Road Safety Campaign - Lee Kim Shin: 3,237 Traffic Accidents in Sarawak During First Two Months of 2025, 61 Fatalities

(Miri, 21st) Sarawak Minister of Transport, Dato’ Sri Lee Kim Shin, pointed out that according to data from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Sarawak recorded 3,237 road traffic accidents from January to February 2025, resulting in 61 fatalities, 20 serious injuries, and 52 minor injuries.

He said that in the Miri region, 526 traffic accidents were recorded, a decrease of 12.5% compared to 601 cases in the same period in 2024, with fatal accidents reduced from 12 to 6, with 1 serious injury and 8 minor injuries. Meanwhile, in the Marudi area, a total of 14 traffic accidents were recorded, a 48.1% drop from 27 cases in the previous year, with 1 fatal accident and zero serious and minor injuries.

He stated this at the Miri Division Hari Raya 2025 Road Safety Campaign at the Shell Miri Bypass Station.

Lee Kim Shin pointed out that according to the Sarawak Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT, PDRM) statistics, the main causes of road traffic accidents in Sarawak include driver negligence and carelessness (95%), rear-end collisions (31.8%), speeding and loss of control (23.3%), side collisions at intersections (21.6%), head-on collisions (4.2%), and other factors (8.3%).

“These figures clearly indicate that the behavior of road users is the main cause of most traffic accidents. Therefore, we must adopt more effective ways to educate the public on the importance of obeying traffic rules.”

He thanked the Miri Division Road Safety Council, Sarawak Road Safety Council, Miri Resident Office, Shell, Miri Traffic Police, Road Transport Department (JPJ), Prime Minister's Department Media Promotion Unit (UKAS), and all units involved in promoting this road safety campaign. He also appreciated the efforts of all enforcement agencies, strategic partners, and community members who supported the event, as well as the strong support from Asianera and the Shell Miri Bypass Station.

He noted that the festive season is a high-risk period for traffic accidents, so the road safety campaign aims to raise public safety awareness, reminding road users to drive cautiously, obey traffic laws, and adopt safety measures such as wearing seat belts and adhering to speed limits.

“We also hope to promote a culture of safe and responsible driving through this campaign, reducing the traffic accident rate in Sarawak, especially in the Miri Division.”

Lee Kim Shin urged society to always prioritize safety, avoid dangerous driving, and ensure the vehicle is in good condition before embarking on long journeys. He also called on drivers to maintain patience and courtesy when facing traffic congestion during the festive season.

“Leverage this safety campaign as a proactive action to jointly reduce accident risks and save lives.”

Finally, Lee Kim Shin once again thanked all the units and individuals supporting and promoting this road safety campaign and hoped this event would effectively raise public awareness of road safety and reduce the incidence of traffic accidents.

With Hari Raya approaching, the public is reminded to ensure good physical condition when traveling long distances home to ensure safety. Additionally, motorists are advised to check their vehicles, including the tires and brakes, before setting off to ensure everything is in good condition.

He emphasized, “Road safety is everyone's responsibility,” and wished everyone a safe drive and a Happy Hari Raya.

In addition to festival hampers, goodie bags, and traffic safety handbooks, the Ministry of Transport also distributed 50 certified adult helmets, 20 children helmets, and safety vests to motorcycle riders to ensure rider safety.