By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 1: A 56-year-old local cyclist was killed in a hit-and-run accident along Jalan Stutong in the early hours of today, with police now tracking down the unidentified driver involved.
Kuching district police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said the incident occurred at about 5.43am when the victim was cycling along the road before being struck from behind by a vehicle whose type and registration number remain unknown.
Preliminary investigations found that the male victim sustained severe head injuries in the crash.
He was pronounced dead at the scene at about 6.30am by a medical assistant from Sarawak General Hospital.
Police said the driver fled the scene immediately after the collision.
The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless or dangerous driving causing death, which carries a jail term of not less than five years and not more than 10 years, as well as a fine of between RM20,000 and RM50,000, upon conviction.
ACP Alexson urged members of the public with information on the incident to come forward and assist investigations by contacting traffic investigating officer Insp Russell Stetson Junner at 013-8578601 or 082-259900, or visiting the nearest police station.
He also reminded road users to remain alert, cautious and to comply with traffic laws at all times to avoid road accidents that may endanger themselves and others.
Cycling community mourns loss
In a separate statement, the Kuching Division Cycling Association expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing the loss as a painful reminder of the risks faced by cyclists on the road.
“No one sets out on a ride expecting not to make it home. The fact that a life has been lost, and that the driver left the scene, makes this all the more difficult to accept. It goes against both the law and the basic responsibility we owe one another on the road,” the association said.
The association extended its condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim, identified as Ken Yeo, during what it described as a very difficult time.
“Incidents like this are painful, and they reflect a reality many cyclists quietly live with — that the roads can be unforgiving. That should not be the norm,” it said.
It stressed that cyclists are also legitimate road users, whether as commuters, athletes or individuals simply going about their daily routines.
“Cyclists are not in the way. They are part of the road,” it said.
The association also urged motorists to exercise greater caution and patience when sharing the road.
“We ask motorists to take that extra moment — to slow down, to give space, and to be mindful. Decisions made in seconds can have irreversible consequences,” it said.
It further called on authorities to take firm and swift action in the case, while strengthening enforcement against dangerous driving and improving road safety awareness.
“As the local divisional cycling association, we remain committed to working with all stakeholders to improve safety for everyone on the road. Real progress requires accountability and a shared sense of responsibility,” it said.
The association added that it would continue to follow developments closely and assist where possible, urging all parties not to let the incident become “just another case we move on from.” — DayakDaily
