Penang: Penang is expected to see approximately 1.9 million vehicles enter and pass through the state during the back-to-back public holidays from May 27 to June 2. Penang police chief Datuk Azizee Ismail said this will prompt the state contingent of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to ramp up traffic monitoring and enforcement.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the surge in traffic flow is anticipated as people travel back to their hometowns and embark on holiday for Hari Raya Aidiladha, Wesak Day, and the Official Birthday of His Majesty the King. "Penang is one of the country's top tourist destinations and a strategic route for motorists. To ensure smooth traffic flow and optimal road safety, PDRM, through the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), will step up monitoring and enforcement operations at key locations," Datuk Azizee Ismail stated in a statement last night.
Azizee emphasized that PDRM will maintain the "Pre-Emptive Services and Total Enforcement" assignment concept, which focuses on early action and proactive preventive measures to reduce congestion and the risk of road accidents. Monitoring will also be heightened at blackspots and congestion hotspots along the North-South Expressway (PLUS) to ensure smooth travel.
He noted particular focus on districts with the highest number of fatal accidents and congestion hotspots, including Jalan Teluk Air Tawar-Jalan Bagan Luar in Seberang Perai Utara, Jalan Perusahaan Perai-Jalan Kulim in Seberang Perai Tengah, Jalan Besar Simpang Empat in Seberang Perai Selatan, and the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway.
Azizee mentioned that 145 officers and personnel from the Penang JSPT will be directly involved in the operation, collaborating with the Department of Crime Prevention and Community Safety, the Road Transport Department, local authorities, and PLUS. He also stressed that offences such as speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, using the emergency lane, running red lights, queue-jumping, and overtaking on double lines will face immediate enforcement action.