PLUS Malaysia Berhad (PLUS) is preparing for a significant surge in highway traffic in conjunction with the 68th National Day celebrations, with projections of up to 2.2 million vehicles making their way across its network on 31 August and 1 September.

In anticipation of the increase, the highway operator has urged motorists to plan their journeys ahead of time to avoid congestion and ensure a more comfortable drive. To support this, PLUS has rolled out several enhancements to its MyPLUS-TTA feature within the PLUS mobile application, aimed at making route planning more seamless, even outside the typical festive travel periods.

Among the new functions is the ability for users to save frequently travelled routes under the ‘Favourite Routes’ section, allowing quicker access during busy periods. The app also now displays real-time alerts directly on the search results page, giving drivers immediate updates on traffic flow and conditions. A revised drop-down menu has replaced the previous scrolling method for route selection, providing a faster and more user-friendly experience.

Unlike major festive seasons where travel advisories are issued in advance, PLUS said that traffic patterns during this year’s Merdeka period will be closely monitored on a daily basis. Advisories will be updated in real time, ensuring highway users receive the most accurate guidance based on current conditions.

With traffic expected to peak during the Merdeka holidays, PLUS is emphasising the importance of planning ahead, using the upgraded tools available, and travelling safely while enjoying the patriotic festivities along the way.

The Ministry of Public Works (KKR) has identified more than 1,000 localities across the country as high-risk areas, or “black spots”, requiring immediate infrastructure and road safety improvements.

According to Harian Metro, Minister Datuk Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the majority of these areas are located along federal roads and are characterised by sharp bends, insufficient lighting, and damaged road surfaces. He confirmed that the government is prioritising remedial works to address these hazards.

As part of ongoing measures to improve safety in accident-prone zones, 300 solar-powered street lights have recently been installed along the Gerik-Jeli East-West Highway (JRTB).

The minister explained that the installation process is being carried out in phases, beginning with locations that have a high incidence of accidents, particularly at night.

He noted that funding constraints have prevented the immediate illumination of the entire route, leading the ministry to focus on strategic sections first. The initial results of the solar lighting initiative along the Gerik-Jeli route have been positive, with the lights functioning effectively since installation.

As a result, the ministry is seeking additional allocations from the Ministry of Finance to expand the project to other high-risk stretches.

Safety concerns surrounding heavy vehicles have resurfaced as industry insiders warn that speed limiters, though mandated in new commercial buses and lorries, can be bypassed by trained technicians. This vulnerability has prompted calls for a more comprehensive approach to vehicle safety.

According to NST, a technician from a local bus manufacturing firm stated that modern speed limiters are embedded within the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of heavy vehicles and rely on sensor inputs to regulate speed. However, the technician revealed that former service centre mechanics may still possess the software required to alter or deactivate the system and could offer such services discreetly through private workshops.

Given this loophole, the technician stressed the critical role of global positioning systems (GPS). As a standard feature in newly registered vehicles under the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), GPS units are typically integrated with the speed limiter system. Unlike limiters, GPS-linked systems can accurately log and monitor a vehicle’s speed and alert operators of any infractions, making tampering more detectable.

Industry figures have also drawn attention to the broader technological framework within heavy vehicles. Thayalan Subramaniam, General Manager of MAN Truck and Bus Malaysia, noted that their vehicles’ speed limiters are also embedded in the ECU and set in accordance with regulatory guidelines — 89km/h for lorries and 100km/h for buses. He assured that MAN uses advanced diagnostic tools with updated security patches to prevent unauthorised system modifications. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that tampering can only be detected during a formal vehicle inspection at authorised workshops.

The issue gained urgency following a recent tragic bus crash in Gerik, which resulted in the deaths of 15 Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris students. In response, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that a new policy mandating the use of speed limiters for heavy vehicles is currently being drafted. The policy is under review to ensure its robustness against exploitation or manipulation.

Industry insiders have further emphasised the need to prioritise other safety systems, such as tyre pressure monitoring and retarder brakes, especially in older vehicle models that remain operational without these features. The technician added that many drivers lack familiarity with modern safety technologies and must be properly trained. Although Apad requires each operator to send one representative for safety training under its Industry Code of Practice, there are concerns that this knowledge may not be disseminated throughout the company workforce.

Commenting on the Gerik accident, the technician observed that the vehicle involved was an outdated mid-range sightseeing bus not designed for regular long-distance travel. It likely lacked essential modern safety mechanisms. He pointed to stricter standards in high-risk areas such as Genting Highlands, where buses without retarder brakes are no longer allowed to operate due to the dangers of downhill travel.

Thayalan echoed these safety concerns, recommending that all new heavy vehicles be equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), an electronic stability programme (ESP), and a retarder braking system. He highlighted that ESP, in particular, plays a crucial role in preventing vehicle rollovers.

He further advocated for mandatory rollover testing for vehicle bodies during the approval process to ensure compliance with United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) safety standards. At MAN, advanced driver assistance systems are now a standard feature across its commercial vehicles, providing enhanced safety at a relatively low cost when installed in new models.

However, Thayalan cautioned that retrofitting such systems in older buses remains a complex and often unreliable process due to challenges associated with aftermarket components, including installation and calibration issues.

The growing focus on technological integrity and operator accountability underscores the urgent need for holistic reforms in the heavy vehicle sector to enhance road safety and prevent further tragedies.

The government has announced a substantial allocation of RM350 million for the maintenance of federal roads across Peninsular Malaysia this year, with the intention of boosting infrastructure reliability and ensuring timely upkeep of the nation’s road network.

According to Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, the funds will be distributed between two key areas: RM275 million has been set aside for periodic pavement maintenance, while RM75 million will cover non-pavement-related works. A total of 563 maintenance projects are scheduled under this programme.

The selection of contractors for these maintenance tasks is being conducted through a draw system, targeting those classified within the G1 to G4 contractor grades. Ahmad explained that this approach is designed to promote transparency and provide equal opportunities to smaller-scale contractors, many of whom often face challenges in accessing government projects.

According to Bernama, he clarified that the draw mechanism is part of the Programme to Accelerate Road Maintenance by Utilising Contractors Grade G1 to G4, with the current phase covering the Central and Eastern Zones. Similar draws are taking place in other regions, including the Southern Zone from today until tomorrow, and the Northern Zone from 5 to 6 June.

Ahmad emphasised that last year’s selected contractors are excluded from this year’s selection process to widen participation and prevent monopolisation. To ensure fairness and accountability, the entire process is being made viewable online, allowing all involved to monitor results transparently.

All shortlisted contractors have undergone vetting procedures by the relevant authorities, with Ahmad expressing full confidence in their capabilities. He stated that only qualified firms were included in the draw and asserted that the likelihood of non-performance would be minimal. Any issues of underperformance, he added, would likely be isolated cases rather than systemic problems.

The government’s move reflects an ongoing commitment to maintaining essential infrastructure while empowering smaller contractors through fair access to public projects. The initiative is expected to improve road safety and travel efficiency while supporting the local construction industry.

According to NIOSH vice-chairman G. Manivanan, the SDDP module was developed in collaboration with both industry experts and stakeholders, taking into account the specific challenges and demands faced by heavy vehicle drivers. The programme encompasses key components such as road legislation, vehicle maintenance, and road management practices, with a strong emphasis on accident prevention and heightened driver awareness.

The training has already been adopted by several companies operating fleets of buses and heavy vehicles. These organisations have begun using the module to enhance the competency and safety awareness of their workforce. NIOSH is now calling on other heavy vehicle operators—both in the public and private sectors—to adopt the SDDP training as a proactive measure to improve road safety.

In addition to training, NIOSH is prepared to support companies in conducting safety audits and implementing stricter safety protocols. One such measure includes the HIRARC method—Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Risk Control. This systematic approach enables employers and employees to identify potential hazards, evaluate associated risks, and apply effective control strategies to mitigate those risks.

Manivanan stressed that the HIRARC methodology is a vital tool in promoting a culture of safety and compliance within the workplace. He reminded employers of their legal duty under the Occupational Safety and Health (Amendment) 2022 Act to ensure the well-being of their employees. This includes the responsibility to maintain vehicles in good working condition and to provide drivers with adequate training.

He further emphasised that NIOSH is open to collaborating with all relevant parties to foster safer working environments and reduce road-related incidents involving heavy vehicles. The recent fatal crash in Perak, which claimed the lives of nine Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) personnel, served as a sobering reminder of the urgent need to strengthen road safety measures. Manivanan highlighted that such tragedies demand immediate and coordinated action to prevent future occurrences.

While awaiting the results of official investigations into the Perak accident, NIOSH is urging all sectors to take responsibility and engage in cooperative efforts to elevate safety standards. Manivanan reiterated that individuals who operate or are in proximity to heavy vehicles are entitled to a safe working environment, as outlined in the amended occupational safety legislation.

With an increasing number of vehicles on the road and a growing emphasis on worker welfare, NIOSH’s call for industry-wide adoption of structured training and safety practices represents a critical step toward creating a safer transport sector in Malaysia.

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.

Nearly 7,000 police officers will be deployed for Ops Selamat 24, an operation focused on ensuring road safety during the upcoming Hari Raya festive season. Authorities will prioritise accident-prone areas along major highways, where an influx of vehicles is expected.

Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director, Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, confirmed that 6,957 traffic personnel have been assigned to the operation, which will run from March 29 to April 3. Special attention will be given to 25 hotspots and 46 black spots identified along major highways. Additionally, 407 hotspots and 76 black spots have been located on federal and municipal roads nationwide, all of which will be closely monitored to enhance traffic safety.

An estimated 2.2 million vehicles are expected on highways throughout the festive period. In response, continuous surveillance will be carried out to provide assistance to motorists in cases of emergencies.

Meanwhile, in Seremban, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced the launch of an additional enforcement operation by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to inspect express buses. The 16-day initiative, beginning today, will involve 2,500 JPJ officers, with a particular focus on routes connecting Kuala Lumpur to the east coast states.

Express buses operating under special permits issued by the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) will also undergo thorough inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Loke emphasised the importance of bus operators maintaining high safety standards, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring passengers and other road users reach their destinations safely.

Both enforcement efforts are part of a broader strategy to minimise road accidents and improve travel conditions during the festive season.

Kelantan is set to experience a massive influx of vehicles as an estimated two million cars are expected to enter the state during the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, according to the Road Transport Department (RTD).

Kelantan RTD director Mohd Misuari Abdullah stated that the surge in traffic will primarily flow through three major entry points: Pasir Puteh, Gua Musang, and Jeli. Congestion is anticipated to begin on March 28 as travellers make their way home for the festivities.

“For this Aidilfitri, we expect around two million vehicles to enter Kelantan. This is a recurring trend we observe each year before the celebrations,” he said, according to NST.

Authorities are preparing for significant traffic build-up along all main routes leading into the state, particularly starting on Friday, March 28. In response, the RTD will deploy 187 officers and enforcement personnel as part of Op Hari Raya Aidilfitri, a special operation aimed at managing traffic flow and ensuring road safety.

The operation will focus on reducing congestion and monitoring compliance with traffic laws as Kelantan prepares for the annual festive migration.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasised that the measure is necessary to accommodate the surge in private vehicle traffic while minimizing the risk of road accidents. He urged all goods vehicle owners and drivers to comply with the restriction, warning that violations could lead to penalties. Offenders may face an RM300 compound, while those prosecuted in court risk fines of up to RM2,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.

As reported by Bernama, Loke highlighted the effectiveness of similar enforcement measures in the past. During the recent Chinese New Year period, special operations led to a 10 per cent reduction in road accidents, with 7,882 cases recorded compared to 8,784 in the previous year. JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli was also present at the event.

As part of continued efforts to improve road safety, the government will implement the Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2025 Special Operation from March 24 to April 8. This initiative will focus on monitoring, detecting, and taking action against road users who violate traffic laws.

Loke also reminded motorists to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic regulations throughout the festive season. He encouraged the public to report traffic violations via the MyJPJ app (e-Aduan@jpj) or through JPJ’s official complaint email at aduantrafik@jpj.gov.my.

“Safety is not just a priority—it is a shared responsibility. By working together, SAIC Motor Malaysia drives progress, enhances vehicle safety standards, and strengthens Malaysia’s position as a leader in road safety and sustainable mobility,” said Emory QiFeng, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia. This collaboration underscores the company’s role in improving vehicle safety standards to meet ASEAN NCAP and global benchmarks, fostering confidence in Malaysia’s automotive industry by attracting investments and promoting innovation in sustainable, eco-friendly mobility solutions.

The partnership with the Ministry of Transport is expected to elevate safety standards across ASEAN by ensuring vehicles meet stringent criteria. This initiative will also strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional leader in road safety and sustainable mobility while supporting the creation of a safer, more sustainable future in line with environmental and societal goals.

SAIC Motor Malaysia’s commitment to road safety demonstrates the company’s belief in shared responsibility. By investing in advanced safety innovations and supporting national initiatives, SAIC not only enhances its brand reputation but also contributes significantly to the betterment of communities and the environment across the region. This pledge signals a forward-looking approach, combining technological advancements with a focus on the well-being of society at large.

The operation will focus on several key areas, including traffic obstruction, adherence to white lines, vehicle registration numbers, motorcycle regulations, driver education, illegal parking, red light violations, and mobile phone usage while driving.

According to Datuk Rusdi, over 200 officers and personnel from various departments and districts within the Kuala Lumpur Contingent will be involved in the operation. He emphasised the importance of road users complying with regulations and practising courteous driving to ensure the safety of all road users and to uphold Kuala Lumpur’s reputation as the city centre.

For any inquiries or further information, the public is encouraged to contact the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Hotline at 03-20719999/9777 or the Kuala Lumpur Police Hotline at 03-21159999.

The Op HUU has been previously implemented in two phases: Phase 1 ran from July 3 to July 31, 2023, and Phase 2 from September 15 to September 29, 2023. This upcoming phase continues the police’s commitment to road safety and regulatory compliance in the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur.

From advancements in structural engineering such as crumple zones to the integration of innovative technologies such as collision avoidance systems and airbag deployment mechanisms, proving that the safety of occupants and pedestrians alike remains a paramount concern for automakers, regulatory bodies, and consumers worldwide. 

Volvo needs no introduction and has long been heralded as a pioneer and advocate for automotive safety, with a legacy that traces back to the invention of the three-point safety belt by engineer Nils Bohlin in 1959. What set Volvo apart from the rest of the world is not just the creation of this life-saving device, but their decision not to patent it, instead opting to share the technology with other automakers for the greater good. 

This altruistic gesture fundamentally changed the landscape of vehicle safety, as the three-point seatbelt became a standard feature in cars worldwide, saving countless lives over the years. 

Volvo’s commitment to safety extends beyond technological innovation; it embodies a philosophy deeply rooted in the belief that protecting human lives on the road is not just a responsibility but a moral imperative.

Just like the older “tank” models, modern Volvo cars are equipped with an array of cutting-edge safety features that embody the company’s unwavering commitment to protecting occupants and pedestrians alike. 

These include advanced driver assistance systems such as collision avoidance technology, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assistance. Additionally, Volvo’s models boast robust structural designs engineered to withstand and dissipate impact forces, along with comprehensive airbag systems strategically placed throughout the cabin.

Models such as the C40 Recharge, XC60 and XC90 have all received five-star ratings in the Euro NCAP tests. 

Just recently, although Volvo did not have to do it, but did it anyway, Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM) organised its first-ever Safety Driving Experience as part of its For Life campaign in Sungai Besi, at the country’s iconic first airstrip.

What is the For Life campaign? The Volvo “For Life” campaign was a marketing initiative launched by Volvo Cars to emphasise the brand’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation. Introduced in the early 2000s, the campaign aimed to highlight Volvo’s holistic approach to automotive design, focusing not only on building safe vehicles but also on creating a better future for people and the planet. 

The Volvo “For Life” campaign goes beyond emphasising the importance of passive and active safety systems within vehicles; it also delves into the psychological aspect of safety while driving. Recognising that factors like fatigue, distractions, and absent-mindedness can contribute to road incidents, Volvo Cars urges drivers to reconsider their approach to safety. 

The Safety Driving Experience focused more on how one should be aware of their surroundings when driving. So, activities during the event included the “brake, swerve, avoid” exercise to build drivers’ confidence in handling unexpected obstacles on the road. As well as training reflexes for challenging situations like sudden lane changing without braking to avoid head-on collisions. 

We were given the Volvo XC40 to carry out the braking and swerving exercises. At speeds of 70km/h, a braking point was placed and the end of the stretch which gave us enough time to slam as hard as we could on the brakes, which activated the ABS system, to show us how efficient the system is.

Anti-Braking System, which is what ABS stands for, works by grabbing and releasing the brakes in rapid sequence. Most of us would have felt a pulsating brake pedal during emergency braking, that is just the ABS working. By grabbing and releasing the brakes, this allows the driver to steer the car under heavy braking. A wheel that is locked up cannot be turned, hence why cars without ABS tend to skid when the wheels are locked. 

For the swerve exercise, at speeds of 70-80km/h, a cone was placed in the middle of the track without hitting the brakes, and we were asked to swerve without hitting the cone and then hit the brakes. Our cone survived, though some cones did not fare as well.

According to Volvo, the reason some drivers hit the cones was because of the position of their hands on the steering wheel. Most of us like to use the “one-handed” driving position, which is not ideal. The best position is to have both your hands on the wheel at the “9” and “3” positions. This makes it easier for a driver to get a full turn without struggling. 

Next off, Volvo showed us some of the neat features that the XC60 Recharge has, such as the Cross-traffic alert with auto brake, Autonomous driving (Lead Car Follow System) and the Surround view camera which gives us a 360° bird’s eye parking view. 

Now to the fun part. We were handed the cars mentioned above on a 1.8km-long runway so we did what any car enthusiast would do – we floored it. Reaching speeds of 180km/h, putting 462PS and 709Nm to all four wheels and hitting the brakes at the end. Of course, without a doubt, the cars handled it very well. 

We also did a slalom run to test the handling and stability of the XC60 Recharge. We were surprised by how a 2170kg SUV handled those tight turns at high speeds. Volvo also had a little challenge set for us. The fastest time around the slalom course would win a decent-sized display model of the XC90. Sadly, we finished three seconds behind the winning time. 

Fun and games aside, these exercises were just a glimpse of what could happen in a real-world situation such as braking when there is a sudden obstacle on the road. Or when the vehicle in front of you hits the emergency brakes or needs to swerve to avoid said obstacle. 

With Malaysia’s questionable road conditions and naive drivers out there, we need to do our part and be aware of our surroundings at all times to ensure the safety of ourselves and others. Because as Volvo puts it, “When you feel safe, you can be truly free.”

Specifications: Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric

Engine: Two electric motors

Power: 402hp

Torque: 660Nm

Top Speed: 180km/h

0-100km/h: 4.9 seconds

Driving Range: 438km

Price (as tested): RM278,888

Specifications: Volvo XC60 Recharge

Engine: 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder Petrol Engine/Rear electric motor

Power: 455hp

Torque: 709Nm

Transmission: Eight-speed automatic

Top Speed: 180km/h

0-100km/h: 4.8 seconds

Electric-Driving Range: 81km

Price (as tested): RM355,888