APAD Beefing Up Crackdown On Errant Bus Drivers, Operators

The Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) is stepping up enforcement action against negligent bus operators and drivers in an effort to reduce the amount of bus-related traffic accidents, according to its director-general Datuk Azlan Shah Al Bakri Shah, as reported by The Sun.

According to police reports, since 2022, there have been up to 60 bus crashes that have resulted in fatalities and serious injuries. These crashes have been attributed to driver negligence and technical issues with the vehicles.
Two Chinese tourists were killed on June 29 when a tour bus carrying 21 people capsized as it was leaving Genting Highlands. The 32-year-old bus driver was found to be unlicensed and to have 27 traffic citations for different offences, according to investigations.

Last year in September, three people were killed and seven others were injured after the double-decker express bus they were travelling in skidded to the road shoulder at KM 81 of Jalan Lipis-Merapoh near Kampung Kubang Rusa.

Investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, investigations revealed that the accident was caused by the bus driver's negligence in failing to control the steering wheel. Bus companies are required to look out for the welfare of their drivers, which includes limiting the amount of time they spend driving to four hours at a time and requiring them to take at least thirty minutes off. Azlan Shah continued, "This ruling ensures that drivers are alert and ready for the next shift." Azlan Shah also stated that it is legally required for buses and other commercial vehicles to have periodic inspections at the Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (CVIC) every six months. Failure to do so may cause the operator's licence to be suspended.

“The government requires the periodic inspection of commercial vehicles, particularly public service vehicles. CVIC officers will ensure they comply with existing laws and standards to help reduce road crashes and save the lives of drivers, passengers and other road users.

“Through the Licence Suspension and Revocation Committee, we will decide on the action to be taken against companies that commit offences and do not comply with the licence terms. This may include the suspension and revocation of the operator or vehicle licence.”