Rise in road accidents, deaths in MPP areas prompts chairman’s call for more road courtesy

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Jan 31: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Lo Khere Chiang is urging the public to display and practise courtesy behind the wheel as road accidents and deaths in MPP areas have increased in the last two years. 

Lo said there were 1,528 road accidents in 2021 with 14 fatalities, while in the most recent 12-month period, there were 2,065 cases with 25 fatalities in MPP areas.  

“The accident rate on the roads is very high and there could be accidents that were not reported. 

“So this is a very important message to our motorists to be more mindful, considerate and courteous when on the roads,” he told a press conference after chairing a full council meeting at MPP headquarters in Mile 10 here today.

With that, Lo reminded motorists that they played a vital role in keeping road users safe and preventing accidents, especially by practising courteous driving and riding. 

“Maintain a safe speed on the road and comply with all traffic regulations because our roads with the Pan Borneo Highway up are getting bigger. There will be more accidents if we do not abide by the traffic regulations and law,” he said.

He also warned that speeding, reckless driving, using cell phones while driving and drunk driving were top factors contributing to road accidents and deaths. 

“And in this rainy season, it is even more important for us to practise patience and courtesy while on the road,” he added.

MPP deputy chairman Senator Dato Cr Ahmad Ibrahim, outgoing council secretary Elizabeth Loh and other MPP councillors were among those present. — DayakDaily