By Karen Bong
KUCHING, March 26: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has a clear message for young riders: stay off the roads for racing and avoid becoming ‘Mat Rempit’—a term for those who engage in illegal street racing and reckless stunts.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the MyLesen programme for the Gedong constituency at Dewan Patinggi Ali today, Abang Johari highlighted the Sarawak government’s commitment to enhancing road infrastructure for better connectivity and public convenience.
“The roads in Gedong will be upgraded into a dual carriageway from Serian to Samarahan, with construction beginning this year.
“But don’t use the roads for racing or become Mat Rempit. That’s my only request,” he urged in his recorded speech.
Abang Johari reminded young riders and drivers to obey traffic laws and use the government-provided infrastructure responsibly.
“When the road expands to four lanes, I know it will be a smooth ride. But don’t speed. We must have discipline when riding and driving,” he stressed.
Under the MyLesen programme, 1,135 residents from Gedong, Batang Sadong, Sadong Jaya, and Simunjan successfully obtained their B2 motorcycle licenses after completing the required courses and tests.
This corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme by the Ministry of Transport Malaysia (MOT) through the Road Transport Department (JPJ) Malaysia aims to provide low-income individuals (B40 group) with affordable motorcycle licenses.
Since its launch in early 2024, the programme has helped 13,370 individuals nationwide obtain their licenses, improving mobility, employability, and economic opportunities, particularly for those in rural areas.
It is one of the government’s continuous efforts to assist low-income communities in obtaining proper driving qualifications.
Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Transport Minister Malaysia Datuk Hasbi Habibolah, Deputy Infrastructure Development Minister Sarawak Datuk Ir Aidel Lariwoo, JPJ Malaysia director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli, JPJ Sarawak director Norizan Jili, Samarahan Division Resident Mohamad Irwan Bahari Bujang, Batang Sadong assemblywoman Rodiyah Sapiee and Batang Sadong assemblyman Awla Dris were among those present. — DayakDaily
