Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing called for more speed-reduction measures, including speed bumps, to be installed along roads in Genting Highlands to reduce accident risks and improve safety [1, 2, 3]. The call comes after a May 30 collision involving two buses and a sport utility vehicle at Km15 on the Genting Highlands-Genting Sempah downhill road [2, 3]. Preliminary investigations revealed the bus driver involved is suspected of having more than 30 traffic offences [2].
The minister emphasized the need to review and expedite the implementation of technology-based monitoring systems. "There is an urgent need to review and expedite the implementation of more technology-based monitoring measures to enhance road safety management. Safety measures cannot only be introduced after accidents occur. We must act from a preventive standpoint and minimise risks as much as possible," he said [1].
Despite the roads in Genting Highlands being privately owned—a factor that prevented earlier installation of speed-trap facilities proposed by the Road Transport Department (JPJ/RTD)—Tiong stressed that tourist and public safety remain a priority. He urged the Genting Highlands management to cooperate with government and enforcement agencies to improve safety as part of corporate social responsibility [1, 2, 3].
The ministry plans further discussions with Genting Highlands management to better understand current road safety practices [1, 2, 3]. Enforcement agencies have been reminded to take stricter action against tourist vehicle drivers with outstanding summonses, expired road tax, dangerous driving records, or other safety risks. "Protecting tourists' safety, safeguarding the country’s tourism reputation and improving the quality of tourist transport services are shared responsibilities. We must be results-oriented and proactive in identifying and addressing weaknesses rather than allowing the same problems to recur," Tiong said [3].
He warned that if safety violations persist without corrective action, "then the system itself must be reviewed" [3]. The May 30 accident has prompted government officials to intensify efforts to enhance road safety on these privately owned roads popular with tourists.
Tiong chaired a coordination meeting on June 9 to discuss the recent accident and safety improvements [1, 2]. On June 10, he reiterated his call for preventive measures and corporate responsibility from Genting Highlands management [3]. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as discussions proceed.
