‘Specialised training should be introduced to enhance road safety'

The Star

10-06-2025

PETALING JAYA: The driving school curriculum in Malaysia needs to be improved through tailored training to effectively enhance road safety among drivers, says Road Safety Marshal Club president K. Balasupra­maniam.
He said specialised training that considers the specific challenges drivers face should be introduced, based on factors such as vehicle type and varied route conditions.
'While the existing curriculum is adequate, additional training tailored to drivers' specific needs – like managing automatic versus manual buses or navigating difficult terrains such as Cameron Highlands – is crucial.
'It is necessary to equip drivers with survival skills and defensive driving techniques specific to their routes,' he said yesterday.
Balasupramaniam stressed the importance of the '3M factor' of man, machine, and maintenance.
'A holistic approach is essential, involving not only driver training but also educating their families to support safer driving habits,' he said.
He also urged greater investment in vehicle technology and maintenance, citing systems like Tyron that mitigate flat tyre-related accidents.
Balasupramaniam emphasised that the responsibility of maintenance extends not only to the driver, but also to mechanics and company policies.
'If a company limits its budget, leading to inadequate vehicle upkeep, it ultimately falls on the driver when malfunctions occur.
'This blame game is avoidable if we focus on 3M: the preparedness of the driver, the performance of the machine and thorough maintenance,' he added.
Malaysian Road and Transportation Safety Association president Md Hairolazaman Muhamed said road conditions need to be looked at as contributing factors to road accidents.
'There are certain stretches of roads which are not properly maintained.
'This could also be one of the factors resulting in accidents, among the other factors,' he said when contacted.
He said drivers, particularly those involved in public transportation, should be trained in safe driving techniques, which would prove helpful in dangerous situations.
'This includes dynamic risk management, which involves drivers trained to adapt quickly to changing road conditions and traffic situations,' he said.
'The bus management or supervisor must brief the driver to be more careful when driving along certain risky stretches of road.
'This includes compulsory stops to ensure that the driver is well rested,' he added.