BINTULU – The Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) Bintulu Branch stepped up enforcement efforts under Ops Tahun Baharu Cina (TBC) 2026, conducting patrols and monitoring activities throughout the town to promote safer travel during the festive season.
The operation, part of JPJ’s nationwide campaign, involved inspections of 65 vehicles across various categories. Officers detected several offences, including driving without a valid licence, failing to wear seat belts, and displaying vehicle registration numbers that did not comply with official specifications. Technical violations related to vehicle conditions were also identified, underscoring the importance of regular maintenance and adherence to road safety standards.
JPJ stated that the campaign aims to minimise accident risks during peak travel periods such as the Chinese New Year celebrations. Similar enforcement operations have been carried out in other parts of Sarawak, including Miri and Kuching, where hundreds of vehicles were inspected and several were seized for offences such as expired licences and lack of insurance coverage.
Authorities stressed that the initiative is not solely punitive but also educational, seeking to raise awareness among motorists about responsible driving practices. By targeting common offences such as speeding, running red lights, and neglecting seat belt use, JPJ hopes to foster safer driving habits and reduce accident rates.
JPJ Bintulu reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening enforcement activities on an ongoing basis. Motorists are urged to ensure their driving licences, vehicle road tax, and insurance coverage are valid before travelling. They are also reminded to keep their vehicles in good mechanical condition to prevent unnecessary risks on the road.
The operation reflects JPJ’s broader strategy of combining firm enforcement with continuous public education. Through consistent monitoring and engagement, the department aims to cultivate a culture of responsibility among road users, ensuring that safety remains a top priority across Sarawak.
As festive travel continues, JPJ’s proactive approach serves as a clear reminder that compliance with traffic regulations is essential to protecting lives and maintaining order on the roads. Road safety, the department emphasised, is a shared responsibility.
