Cycling activities on the road have become quite common among Malaysians recently, but this also poses danger to cyclists and other road users. Statistics for road accidents in 2020 involving cyclists in Malaysia have recorded a total of 137 cases, including 56 deaths, 18 serious injuries, and 63 minor injuries.
Although there are no prohibitions for cycling activities on the road, the Department of Traffic Investigation and Enforcement (JSPT) advises cyclists to always follow the rules and laws of the road which have frequently been violated.
In a statement released on 11 December, JSPT stresses that cycling activities on the road can interfere with the flow of traffic as other vehicles also use the same route, which poses the risk of accidents because cyclists easily succumb to danger on the road.
They also advise cyclists to carry out their cycling activities at the right time and location, such as during non-peak hours. Additionally, bicycle owners must ensure that the equipment and bicycle they use should have safety features, including a roof rack bicycle carrier on vehicles to transport their bicycles.
According to the Road Transport Act 1987 and Road Traffic Rules 1959, here’s a list of penalties cyclists may face if they commit any of the following crimes:
- Riding recklessly and dangerously (Penalty: Up to RM1,000 and not more than RM5,000 fine, and imprisonment up to 12 months.
- Failure to obey traffic signs that prohibit cyclists on the highway (Penalty: Up to RM300 fine and not more than RM2,000 fine)
- A police officer, transport officer or traffic warden may detain any bicycle, electric bicycle or tricycle in respect of which an offence has been committed within his view
- Bicycles found with no front and backlights (Penalty: Up to RM2,000 fine or imprisonment of up to six months)
- Bicycles with no brakes or bell (Penalty: Up to RM2,000 fine or imprisonment of up to six months)
- Failure to cycle in a row (Penalty: Up to RM2,000 fine or imprisonment of up to six months)
Cyclists, do take note of these rules! This is to ensure that you and other motorists are safe while cycling on the road.