KUCHING, 28 May 2026 (Thursday) – The Sarawak Road Transport Department (JPJ) has stepped up enforcement measures across the state as part of Ops Hari Raya Aidiladha (HRAA) and Gawai Dayak 2026, focusing on accident-prone areas and express bus terminals.
JPJ Sarawak Director Norizan Jili confirmed that 500 personnel have been mobilised statewide to carry out continuous patrols and monitoring, both day and night, in locations identified as high-risk.
These include 57 accident-prone sites, covering 27 federal roads and 26 state roads, with Kuching’s Jalan Stutong and Jalan Setia Raja among the highlighted danger zones.
The operation, which began on 24 May, will run until 5 June, coinciding with the festive travel surge. JPJ enforcement teams are conducting technical inspections on buses at Kuching, Sibu, and Miri terminals, ensuring compliance with roadworthiness standards, valid licences, insurance coverage, and driver qualifications.
Officials stressed that seat belt use by passengers remains mandatory, with breaches subject to firm action.
Statistics from the Sarawak Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department show 21,746 accident cases recorded last year, marking a slight increase compared to 2024.
JPJ believes that intensified patrols and inspections will help curb this trend by targeting high-risk areas and ensuring public transport safety.
Community leaders have welcomed the initiative, noting that such measures are vital in maintaining public confidence in express bus services.
JPJ emphasised that the operation is not only about enforcement but also about fostering a culture of safety among drivers and passengers.
“Safety cannot be compromised. Every bus must be in proper operational condition before embarking on journeys,” JPJ officers reiterated during inspections.
As festive travel peaks, JPJ Sarawak’s vigilance underscores its commitment to reducing fatalities and injuries, ensuring that celebrations across Sarawak are not marred by preventable tragedies.
