MIRI, March 18 — A 53-year-old motorcyclist was killed after his motorcycle was hit by a car in an accident at KM822.1 of the Pan Borneo Highway near Jalan Suai, Batu Niah, yesterday evening.
The incident, which occurred at about 4.30pm, involved a motorcycle and a car travelling from Miri towards Bintulu. The victim was confirmed dead at the scene due to severe injuries sustained in the collision.
Miri District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah said preliminary investigations revealed that the car was driven by a 36-year-old local man who was heading towards Bintulu at the time of the accident.
“As a result of the collision, the motorcyclist died at the scene. The car driver was not injured,” he said in a statement issued today.
Police have classified the case under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which covers causing death by reckless or dangerous driving. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident, including road conditions, vehicle movement and possible negligence.
The Pan Borneo Highway is a major route connecting towns and districts across Sarawak. With increasing traffic flow, especially ahead of the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive season, authorities have repeatedly reminded motorists to exercise caution and comply strictly with traffic regulations.
Mohd Farhan urged members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or have relevant information to come forward to assist in the investigation. They may contact the traffic investigation officer, Inspector Nor Afifah Nordin, at 019-5264640 or 085-430479, or report to the nearest police station.
Road safety remains a serious concern in Sarawak, particularly during festive periods when traffic volume increases significantly. Police have stressed that responsible driving, adherence to speed limits and alertness on highways are critical in preventing unnecessary loss of life.
As families prepare to return to their hometowns for Aidilfitri celebrations, this tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of safety on the road. Authorities continue to call on all road users to remain vigilant and prioritise safety at all times.
