IT IS deeply disturbing to note with all the precautions taken, even to the extent of declaring Sept 18 a public holiday to spread the balik kampung traffic, there was no reduction in the number of accidents and deaths compared to similar periods in previous years.
Without attempting to cast aspersions on the authorities concerned it is plain to see that Ops Sikap XX has not produced the desired results.
It is time a comprehensive study is undertaken to find the cause of this phenomenally high rate of fatal accidents.
Our highways are said to be some of the best in the world for their structural lay-out and quality.
Yet the figures on accidents keep spiralling upwards. I think this has much to do with our mind-set.
Many of us have not been inculcated with the right attitudes in our developmental years on the correct approach to using the roads. Additionally, the lack of stringent and concerted enforcement has over generations bred a lackadaisical attitude in our motorists and motorcyclists.
Consideration, courtesy, care and patience are woefully lacking in a lot of the driving public when they take to the roads. Taking shortcuts, beating the lights and intimidating other road users to their right of way seem to be the feature among many motorists and motorcyclists. One mindless act can cause a pile-up and several deaths. The survival of the fittest should never be the motto.
Whatever is the cause for such a mindset and attitude? Could it be that they have not been taught better?
To my mind it is due to a gap in their education. The road is not an avenue for adventure and asserting one’s ego should never be the goal. Educating children on the precepts of road usage should go hand in hand with the learning of the 3R’s.
Learning by example is effective. If adults do not set a good example, then the children will know no better. They will follow suit thinking it is the way of life.
Essentially, respect, civility, courtesy, care, patience and consideration are the iron-clad virtues to ensure safety on the roads. Missing out on any one of those virtues could spell disaster.
JYR, Petaling Jaya
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