USING PUBLIC TRANPORT SAFER THAN DRIVING OWN CAR

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama) - A study has found that the risk of meeting with an accident by using public transport is seven times lower than driving one's vehicle and 48 times safer than riding a motorcycle.

"The study by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research which was recently tabled before us, has found that public transportation is seen to be much safer for the public to go to their destinations," said Road Transport Department (RTD) director-general Solah Mat Hassan.

He said some private vehicle users faced the risk of an accident because of various factors such as having only recently obtained a driving licence, not familiar with the highways and not prepared to deal with traffic jams.

Solah had earlier launched a road safety operation in conjunction with Aidilfitri, here, Sunday, which was also attended by Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission investigation division director, Mustafar Ali.

He said more than 1,500 express buses, which passed RTD's inspection, would be used for this Raya and the agency would have about 3,500 personnel on duty during the festive season.

Meanwhile, the honesty of 37 RTD officers and staff in rejecting bribes were recognised during the ceremony when they received certificates of appreciation.

Mustafar said 414 corruption cases involving enforcement personnel such as RTD and police were recorded to date, with 185 cases charged in court or
sentenced.

More cases of givers of bribes were received in the last four years compared to those receiving bribes, he added.