Penang: Motorcyclists using the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Bridge (JSAHMS) are urged to use the designated motorcycle lane to prevent accidents. Jambatan Kedua Sdn Bhd (JKSB) chief executive officer, Datuk Faisal Shahbudin, said monitoring indicates most accidents on JSAHMS involved motorcyclists who did not use the motorcycle lane.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Faisal emphasized the importance of using the designated lanes, highlighting that last year saw fatal accidents involving motorcyclists. “I’m not sure of the exact number of accidents, but there have been fatal incidents because riders did not use the motorcycle lane. Although it was open, they chose to ride on the main road instead, resulting in collisions with stationary cars in the emergency lane. This is what we want to prevent,” he said.

He conveyed these remarks to reporters after launching the Jom Selamat Campaign in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri. The event was also attended by Penang Road Transport Department (RTD) Director Zulkifly Ismail at the JSAHMS Toll Plaza Complex today.

Faisal stated that the collaboration with RTD on the Jom Selamat Campaign aims to raise road safety awareness, particularly on JSAHMS during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive season. This initiative is part of the broader ‘Sinar Sejahtera’ safety program.

During the campaign launch, JKSB distributed windbreaker jackets and reflective stickers to motorcyclists to enhance their visibility on the road. Additionally, mini fire extinguishers were provided to Class 1 vehicle users as an added safety measure.

Faisal reiterated JKSB’s commitment to advocating and educating the public on road safety, particularly during festive seasons when highway traffic significantly increases.

Meanwhile, Zulkifly mentioned that the Penang RTD plans to conduct enforcement operations during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri period, focusing on accident-prone routes in Seberang Perai Utara and Seberang Perai Selatan on the mainland, as well as in Barat Daya on the island. “The operations will be carried out a week before and after Hari Raya Aidilfitri. It will not only involve private vehicles but also express buses to ensure adherence with safety regulations when ferrying passengers,” he added.