A total of 16 passengers travelling on express and sightseeing buses in Kedah were each fined RM300 for not wearing their seatbelts, following a surprise operation by the Kedah Road Transport Department (JPJ) on the evening of 1 July. The enforcement action was aimed at boosting road safety compliance among both drivers and passengers, particularly during the festive and school holiday periods when bus travel peaks.
According to Sinar Harian, Kedah JPJ Director Stien Van Lutam said the operation inspected 18 buses, comprising 14 express buses and four sightseeing buses. Officers uncovered numerous passengers failing to observe seatbelt regulations, a safety measure often neglected despite its proven effectiveness in preventing injuries during accidents.
Two underaged passengers were among those found without seatbelts; however, they were not fined. Instead, JPJ officers provided guidance to the children and their guardians on the importance of seatbelt use, highlighting the department’s focus on advocacy as well as enforcement.
Undercover Officers Deployed on Buses
A notable aspect of the operation was JPJ’s deployment of undercover officers who boarded buses disguised as ordinary passengers. This covert approach allowed authorities to monitor real-time compliance without alerting drivers or passengers beforehand. Once offences were confirmed, officers recorded evidence before issuing the RM300 compound fines on the spot.
“Our enforcement efforts extend beyond checkpoints or bus terminal inspections. By placing undercover officers onboard, we can catch violations in their natural context. When passengers or drivers are seen neglecting seatbelt rules, we will act based on documented proof,” Stien Van Lutam explained.
He emphasised that the enforcement falls under the Motor Vehicles (Seatbelts and Child Restraint Systems) Rules 1978, amended in 2008, which mandates seatbelt use for all passengers in vehicles equipped with them. Non-compliance is not only illegal but also increases the risk of severe injury or death during traffic accidents.
Importance of Wearing Seatbelts on Public Transport
Many passengers wrongly assume that seatbelts are unnecessary on buses, especially during short journeys or while riding sightseeing coaches. However, safety experts stress that wearing seatbelts significantly reduces the risk of injury in sudden stops, collisions, or rollovers.
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The Kedah JPJ urged the public to take these fines as a serious reminder to prioritise safety whenever travelling by bus or other vehicles. Authorities also warned that similar operations will continue across Malaysia to ensure better compliance with seatbelt laws.