Big operation on rear seatbelt offenders

The Road Transport Department (RTD) will conduct a big operation against rear seatbelt offenders before Aidilfitri. Director-general Datuk Solah Mat Hassan said summons will be issued as many passengers still refused to use rear seatbelts although many campaigns were held. He said the Road Safety Department will continue to launch road safety campaigns including the importance of wearing rear seatbelts," he said after closing the 'Satu Komuniti Satu JPJ' programme in Ba'kelalan here yesterday. A total of 77 participants from here and nearby areas who passed driving tests received their temporary driving licences. Solah said based on observation, awareness and culture of buckling up among vehicle owners and passengers did not seem to exist. "They have to wear seatbelts just like motorcyclists and pillion riders who wear helmets when riding. This is important for safety in case of road accidents. "Enforcement alone will not be effective if there is no awareness among them," he added. Sarawak recorded a total of 327 fatal accidents last year compared to only 303 cases in 2009, with motorcyclists and pillion riders the highest casualty.