PDRM: Elderly Drivers Involved in Nearly 7,000 Fatalities from 2019–2024

PDRM has called for a detailed study to improve road safety for drivers aged 61 and above, following almost 7,000 fatalities involving this group between 2019 and 2024. 

According to Utusan Malaysia, 19,812 drivers in this age range were involved in road accidents during the period, with 6,733 deaths, 2,132 serious injuries and 10,947 minor injuries recorded.

Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department Director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri said age is not a barrier to safe driving, but the safety of elderly drivers requires more focused attention. 

He stressed that the goal is not to stop senior citizens from driving, but to create a mechanism for assessing their health and fitness to ensure safer roads for all.

He noted that many older Malaysians depend on driving for daily activities such as attending prayers, going to markets or picking up grandchildren from school, making restrictions challenging in the local cultural context. 

He said a comprehensive review involving all stakeholders is needed before any decision is made, with the Ministry of Transport to lead the effort.

The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) also raised similar concerns last year. Director-General Dr. Siti Zaharah Ishak suggested that if accident trends continue, Malaysia may need to implement health and competency checks for drivers aged 65 and above.

In countries such as Japan, Singapore and the UK, elderly drivers undergo evaluations every two or three years. While driving supports independence for older people, factors such as slower reaction times and declining vision can affect safety.

Malaysian law does not currently set a maximum driving age. Section 30(3) of the Road Transport Act 1987 only requires drivers to ensure they are fit to drive, without addressing the specific risks associated with ageing.