Kuala lumpur: Malaysia must urgently prioritise road safety by adopting the 'Vision Zero' philosophy to prevent future road deaths and serious injuries, said Alliance for a Safe Community Chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, in conjunction with the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. In a statement today, Lee highlighted the importance of the day in honouring those who have died or been injured in road crashes, which leave lasting scars on families and communities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lee emphasised that every life lost on the road is irreplaceable, each statistic representing a parent, child, or friend whose absence is felt deeply. He pointed out that this year's theme, 'Lost Talents,' underscores the broader societal impact of road fatalities, where the loss of life translates into a loss of potential, ideas, and contributions to families and communities.
Lee expressed concern over road crashes as a significant public health challenge, disproportionately affecting younger generations. He cited statistics from the World Health Organisation, which indicate that 1.19 million people die annually from road accidents, with road injuries being the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5 to 29. Vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists account for more than half of these deaths.
In Malaysia, around 600,000 road crashes were recorded in 2023, resulting in 6,443 deaths, averaging 18 fatalities per day. Speeding contributed to 80 per cent of the fatal crashes. Lee stressed that road crashes are preventable, often stemming from human error, unsafe road designs, poor enforcement, and irresponsible behaviour.
He stated that achieving vision zero requires a shift in mindset, with safety becoming the foundation of every decision from road design and vehicle safety standards to education, enforcement, and behaviour on the road. Lee urged the government, enforcement agencies, road safety experts, private sector players, and civil society to strengthen policies, enforce traffic laws, and foster a culture of respect and care among road users.
Lee concluded by calling for a renewed commitment to prevent future tragedies on this day of remembrance. He urged all stakeholders to pledge to make roads safe for everyone-pedestrians, motorcyclists, passengers, and drivers-and work towards Vision Zero: zero deaths, zero excuses.