KUCHING, Sept 27: The Sarawak Urban Traffic Management Committee Meeting (SUTMAC) provides a forum for all relevant stakeholders to gather and coordinate on pertinent issues affecting urban traffic flow and transportation movement.
According to a press release by Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, systematic urban traffic management is required to create a safe, orderly, and efficient movement of people and goods while also protecting the environment.
“SUTMAC will examine traffic issues collaboratively and recommend to the government integrated and synchronised programmes, projects, and initiatives to address the issues in a more coordinated manner,” Lee said.
He revealed that SUTMAC’s formation is considered timely in order to implement or execute the functions of the Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) in urban traffic management.
He explained that as a result of the rapid growth of many major towns and cities, there is little space for motor vehicles to move without getting stuck at traffic junctions or unsignalized intersections, resulting in congestion.
“Looking at the scenario of land transport today, we have expanded road infrastructure connecting cities, towns, and villages throughout the State.
“The length of the road had increased from 13,231km in 2006 to 305,528km in 2019.
“With the rapid increase in private cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles, we can see that the current traffic volume has reached a level that threatens road safety,” he added.
In addition, Lee emphasised that State and federal agencies in Sarawak have the authority to regulate traffic flow and the construction of infrastructure and street furniture for traffic.
He highlighted that the agencies operate in accordance with their respective portfolios, roles, and responsibilities, which often have their own agendas and priorities.
The Ministry of Transport Sarawak (MOTS) held its first SUTMAC on Sept 26, 2022 which was chaired by Lee.
The meeting was attended by the heads of departments and government officers from key and relevant ministries and agencies responsible for urban traffic management, as well as Residents from all Sarawak Divisions.
On Aug 25, 2022, the Sarawak Cabinet approved the establishment of SUTMAC.
The formation of the committee is in accordance with one of MOTS’ core functions, as stipulated in Sarawak Government Gazette Notification, vol. LXXVII, dated Jan 21, 2022.
SUTMAC must be held not less than twice a year. — DayakDaily
