A viral video showing a Malaysian long-distance bus driver playing a mobile game while driving has sparked outrage online, raising urgent concerns about driver safety and public transport accountability. The incident reportedly occurred on 22 June at around 6pm, when a Chinese tourist was travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth on a long-haul bus.
The shocking footage, filmed by the tourist herself, clearly shows the driver tapping away on his smartphone game while manoeuvring the massive vehicle on the highway. Understandably alarmed, the passenger sent the video to a local news presenter who shared it on social media with the caption: “Of course not all Malaysian drivers are like this, but this rotten apple must be exposed! Driving like this is truly terrifying!”
Public Calls for Strict Action Against Dangerous Driving
The video quickly gained traction, with netizens demanding immediate action against the driver and better enforcement of safety standards on public buses. Many commenters called for the driver’s licence to be revoked, while others criticised the bus companies for failing to monitor their drivers effectively.
One user highlighted the urgent need for in-vehicle surveillance, suggesting that cameras should be installed at the front and back of all buses to ensure drivers follow safety protocols. Another pointed out that despite repeated incidents of reckless driving, similar cases keep resurfacing because companies and authorities have not enforced strict enough measures.
Outraged comments poured in, with Malaysians and tourists alike expressing fear and frustration. Many pointed out that passengers are required to wear seat belts under threat of fines, yet there appears to be little accountability for dangerous behaviour by bus drivers. Others shared their own experiences of bus drivers using phones while driving, especially in adverse weather conditions, describing the journeys as “more frightening than horror films.”
Urgent Need for Accountability in Malaysia’s Public Transport Sector
This latest case has reignited debate over passenger safety in Malaysia’s public transport system. Transport Minister Anthony Loke has been urged to investigate the incident and take decisive action against both the driver and the bus company. Some commenters also called for regulatory changes to block drivers’ mobile devices from accessing the internet once the bus is in motion, reducing the temptation to engage in distractions.
Netizens argued that simply urging passengers to buckle up does not address the root of the problem — ensuring that drivers are focused, responsible, and properly supervised. Many expressed frustration that Malaysian authorities often react only after fatalities occur, instead of implementing preventative measures to protect passengers.
As calls for justice mount, Malaysians hope that swift and firm action will send a clear message to all bus operators and drivers that risking lives through irresponsible behaviour will not be tolerated. In the meantime, the viral video serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers that reckless drivers pose to everyone on the road.