(Kuching, 18th) Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata stated that this year the number of fatal road traffic accidents in Sarawak decreased by 3%, with 326 accidents reported from January to November this year, compared to 336 in the same period in 2023.
However, he added that despite a reduction of 10 accidents during this period, it does not reflect a significant change in the attitudes of road users.
“From January to November 2024, there were a total of 19,964 road traffic accidents in the Sarawak region, showing an increase of 466 accidents compared to last year's 19,498, marking a 2.4% increase.”
In fact, he said, as of the end of November this year, the trend of road traffic accidents continues to be a worrying increase.”
Mancha Ata made these remarks while speaking at a circuit safety awareness campaign today.
He stated that Malaysia's road traffic accident statistics continue to surge, especially during festive periods.
“Studies have found that the main cause of road traffic accidents is the negligence of drivers or road users themselves. Self-centered and irresponsible attitudes are negative traits that road users should not have; they must cultivate cautious and tolerant attitudes and comply with existing road rules and regulations. If all parties take this responsibility seriously, the issue of road traffic accidents can certainly be reduced.”
He also said that the government has planned and implemented various efforts and methods to address this issue, including a road safety awareness campaign aimed at increasing public awareness of the causes of road accidents, while the Royal Malaysian Police Sarawak Special Task Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department will cooperate with other enforcement agencies to launch this campaign during the upcoming Christmas celebrations.
“The program aims to convey messages and educate the public to always adhere to road rules and regulations while increasing road user awareness, eliminating negative attitudes that often lead to accidents.”
He said that the campaign will last for five days from December 23 to 27, particularly in hotspot areas expected to have traffic congestion and areas prone to road accidents.
“Police officers will be stationed in hotspot areas to ensure smooth and controlled traffic flow and will conduct joint patrols with partners to serve the local community.”
He said that, as with previous campaigns, after the launch, they will continue to adopt the 'decongest' method, and also maintain ways of public communication and awareness.”
He also stated that in line with this event, the Sarawak police will set up counters at the Sarawak Police Headquarters from today to the 20th for the checking and payment of traffic summonses, with a 50% discount offered.
He added that the police also welcome all road users to provide any information and updates on accidents or unusual congestion by contacting any district police operation rooms which are open 24 hours.