The Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Congestion (JK-MKKJR) has approved a proposal to establish a dedicated funding mechanism aimed at enhancing road safety, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
Speaking at a press conference following the committee meeting today, Loke revealed that the initiative will involve allocating 50 per cent of revenue collected through fines under the Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) to the Ministry of Transport (MOT). The funds will be used to implement key safety measures, including the installation of lighting at accident-prone areas along highways.
“One of the immediate actions we will take is installing lights in accident hotspots,” Loke said. “We hope this creates a more sustainable stream of funding so that we can introduce preventive measures to mitigate road accident risks.”
The minister underscored the importance of a long-term strategy, stating that consistent financial resources are crucial for improving road infrastructure and enhancing public safety.
In response to recent public concern following a tragic incident involving a mother elephant that lingered near her calf after it was struck and killed by a lorry along the Gerik-Jeli East-West Highway (JRTB), Loke said safety measures in the area would be intensified. These include improved lighting and the possible construction of designated wildlife crossings to reduce vehicle-animal collisions.
He emphasised that wildlife protection would not be limited to highways but would also extend to railway infrastructure. “We will incorporate wildlife safety features in rail projects, particularly along the Gemas-Johor Bahru line. This comes in light of past cases involving elephants crossing railway tracks,” he said.
Loke stressed that such measures are not only intended to protect Malaysia’s wildlife but are also critical for safeguarding human lives. “Our rail tracks can become extremely dangerous if large animals like elephants are struck by fast-moving trains. The impact could result in serious consequences,” he added.
The ministry’s plan reflects a broader commitment to integrating environmental and safety considerations into the country’s transport infrastructure, as authorities seek to balance development with sustainability and public welfare.
