The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is set to intensify its advocacy program, emphasising the significance of valid licenses for motorists and motorcyclists, particularly among school students. Datuk Rospiagus Taha, the director-general of JPJ, announced plans to encourage 23,000 individuals aged 16 to 35, including students riding motorcycles without a license, to obtain their driving licenses within the next six months.

While JPJ acknowledges the challenges faced by students who rely on motorcycles for commuting to school, legal action will not be taken during this advocacy phase. Instead, the focus is on educating and creating awareness. Taha stated, “We will not take legal action because we are in the advocacy phase and at the same time, we also understand the constraints facing students who need to ride motorcycles to get to school.”

According to Bernama, the advocacy efforts will extend to parents who permit their children to ride or drive without a license. Taha highlighted the importance of a systematic and targeted approach to raise awareness about the necessity of valid licenses for driving or riding vehicles. This initiative aims to contribute to reducing road accidents and fatalities.

Taha expressed optimism about the impact of programs like the JPJ Cadet Camp, a four-day event involving over 300 students from Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Selangor, and Kuala Lumpur. The camp serves as a platform to instill road safety awareness in young people and emphasizes the importance of adhering to road rules and regulations.

JPJ views the participating students as Road Safety Ambassadors and believes they will play a crucial role in conveying the message of road safety advocacy to their peers and parents. The director-general sees these educational initiatives as essential steps toward creating a safer road environment by fostering responsible driving habits among the younger generation.