By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Jan 19: Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has warned that speeding continues to be a significant threat to road safety, despite installing various safety measures such as concrete and tree barriers along roads.
Speaking to reporters after opening the Kenyalang CNY Festive Sale 2025 last night (Jan 18) at Kenyalang Park Commercial Centre, Dr Sim emphasised that while the government has made efforts to improve road safety, including placing barriers in high-risk areas, these measures are not foolproof if drivers do not exercise caution.
“At the end of the day, if you drive too fast, lose control, or lack the experience to manage your car, it doesn’t matter whether the barriers are concrete or trees. You may not kill others, but you could still end up killing yourself,” he stated.
His remarks followed the horrific accident at Jalan Teo Kui Seng in Stutong Baru, Kuching, on Jan 14, which was caused by a 16-year-old boy driving without a license. It was reported that the teenager lost control of the vehicle, veering into the opposite lane, and colliding with two cars and two motorcycles.
Dr Sim, who is also the Sarawak Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government (MPHLG), called on parents and society to take responsibility for ensuring the safety of young drivers, emphasising that knowledge of road rules is essential beyond legal requirements.
“It is every parent’s responsibility to ensure that their children know how to drive properly—not just legally, but by understanding the rules and responsibilities,” he said, underscoring that society, parents, and the government must play their part in promoting road safety.
The minister also stressed the importance of distinguishing between council roads and Public Works Department (JKR) roads, urging the public to approach the correct authorities for road issues to ensure quicker resolution.
“For council roads, since I became the Minister of Local Government, we’ve made it clear by placing the local council logo on them. It’s not that we want to pass the responsibility to others, but we want you to quickly and easily reach the appropriate authority.
“If you see the local council logo, you should approach the council directly. If there’s no logo, it’s a JKR road, and you should approach the relevant authority. It’s important to be clear and avoid misleading the public.
“Council responsibilities fall under the council, and JKR responsibilities fall under JKR. If you want the message to reach the right people, you must go to the right authority,” he explained.
As the Chinese New Year approaches, Dr Sim appealed to all Sarawakians to travel safely, stating, “I want everyone to ‘balik kampung’ safely. This is a time for celebration, not for saying our last respects. We don’t want to lose you forever.” — DayakDaily
