High Compliance With Bus Seat Belt Rules In Penang - JPJ

BUTTERWORTH, July 3 (Bernama) -- The Penang Road Transport Department (JPJ) has reported a high level of compliance with seat belt regulations among express and tour bus drivers and passengers in the state.

Its director, Zulkifly Ismail, said the finding was based on a special operation conducted since Tuesday to identify those not wearing seat belts following the enforcement of the new directive.

During the operation, JPJ inspected 125 express buses and 43 tour buses. Three summonses were issued, one to a driver and two to passengers, for failing to wear seat belts.

The driver was caught during checks at the Sungai Dua Toll Plaza heading south. The bus was travelling from Kedah to Kuala Lumpur. The two passengers, travelling from Ipoh to Butterworth, were detected by undercover JPJ officers onboard.

“All three individuals were fined RM300 each,” Zulkifly said, adding that the results reflect strong public awareness and adherence to the seat belt regulation.

Speaking after the seat belt enforcement operation at Penang Sentral Bus Terminal last night, Zulkifly said JPJ deployed undercover officers as bus passengers to detect offenders discreetly.

“If a driver or passenger is found not wearing a seat belt, the officer can immediately issue a summons,” he said.

Besides undercover checks, JPJ also conducted inspections at major terminals including Penang Sentral and Sungai Nibong, as well as at rest stops and roadblocks to ensure full compliance.

“Seat belts are for personal safety. In the event of an accident, they can prevent passengers from being thrown from their seats,” he added.

Zulkifly also called on public transport operators to ensure their buses are equipped with functioning seat belt systems in line with current safety standards.

“Express buses registered from Jan 1, 2020, must be fitted with seat belts. Operators of older buses are encouraged to install them before commencing any journey,” he said.

JPJ’s full enforcement of seat belt regulations for express and tour buses is in line with the Motor Vehicles (Seat Belt and Child Restraint System) Rules 1978 (Amendment 2008).

-- BERNAMA