‘Ensure drivers well-trained, courteous’

January 2, 2014

Karim (centre) cuts the ribbon to launch the centre. He is flanked by Bau District Council secretary Jitien Ritop (on his left) and LMKG Sdn Bhd managing director Harry Henry Jinep

KUCHING: Driving institutes in the state should be fully committed to produce well-trained and courteous drivers instead of just ensuring that their students pass driving tests.

Assistant Youth Development Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said all driving institutes must possess some sense of responsibility to ensure that those who pass their driving tests were really qualified to drive on the road.

He said driving institutes should try to produce skilful, disciplined and considerate drivers.

“Obtaining a driving licence is one thing, but what is of utmost important is that all newly-graduated drivers should also be well versed in traffic rules, road signage and of course should always be courteous when using the road,” he said when launching the Institut Memandu Kota Gading (LMKG) One Stop Centre yesterday.

“I have came across cases where drivers, despite possessing valid driving licenses, don’t even know the meaning of certain road signs, which is very dangerous.”

He said in this context driving institutes were duty bound to ensure that the drivers they produce are of great quality in an effort to help reduce the number of traffic accidents, which has been very alarming, especially among youths.

“Accidents can happen anywhere and at any time, but more often than not they were caused by the recklessness of the drivers themselves and this is the area that driving institutes should look into.

“Of course it is our aim to make sure that all those riding motorcycles and driving cars possess valid licences, but what is also of utmost importance is that we can bring down the fatal accidents rate,” he added.

He said many Malaysians, including in the state, have lost their lives to road accidents and many of them were young and among the productive group for the nation.

“Because of this, therefore, I would like to urge all driving institutes to always have this in mind in running their businesses.”