Seatbelt Crackdown: JPJ Goes Undercover on Express Buses

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has begun strict enforcement of seatbelt rules for express and tour bus passengers across several states, with many passengers still unaware that wearing seatbelts on buses is mandatory.

In Negeri Sembilan, Bernama reported JPJ officers inspected 43 express and tour buses as part of a special seatbelt operation that began yesterday. Seven adult passengers were caught not wearing their seatbelts and were each fined RM300.

State JPJ director Hanif Yusabra Yusuf said that some passengers gave excuses such as never having used a seatbelt before, feeling uncomfortable, or not knowing it was required. Despite this, he said overall compliance has been encouraging so far, and awareness appears to be improving.

Hanif reminded bus operators to ensure that seatbelts on all buses are functional and to consistently remind passengers to buckle up. He added that JPJ will deploy undercover officers during the month-long operation to catch violators discreetly.

Meanwhile, in Kedah, a similar operation uncovered 18 cases of passengers not wearing seatbelts during inspections on 18 buses, 14 express buses and four tour buses.

Kedah JPJ director Stien Van Lutam said that 16 adult passengers were fined RM300 each, while two underage passengers received only a warning.

“This enforcement is in line with the Motor Vehicles (Seatbelt and Child Restraint System) Regulations 1978 (Amendment 2008),” he said at a press conference at the Alor Setar Utara Toll Plaza.

Stien explained that the move aims to reduce injuries and fatalities in bus-related accidents while also promoting safety awareness and discipline among bus passengers.

He advised passengers to report to the driver if the seatbelt is not in working condition before starting the journey. Bus operators are also required to ensure that all express and tour buses manufactured from January 1, 2020, are fitted with seatbelts, while older buses are strongly encouraged to install them.

Stien also warned that enforcement teams will board long-distance buses in plain clothes to monitor compliance. Any passenger found without a seatbelt and caught on camera may be fined, while drivers who fail to set an example by wearing their seatbelts will also face penalties.

Source: Metro