Friendly Reminder: Drive Safe On Raya
By Khairunnisa Ibrahim

Bandar Seri Begawan - Motorists are advised to be extra careful and courteous especially during the Aidilfitri celebration which is expected to bring an increase in road usage as Bruneians go out in force to visit family and friends.

In 2005, there were 71 road accidents recorded during the first week of Syawal, considered the peak period for the Hari Raya celebrations, official statistics show. This was up from 51 the previous Fear.

One death each was reported in 2004 and 2005. No injuries were recorded last year, but in 2004 the Raya peak period saw 13 people receiving injuries, one of them grievously harmed.

Acting Superintendent Pg Mohd Roslin bin Pg Hj Bakar, the Head of the Public Relations Unit at the Royal Brunei Police Force advised drivers to obey traffic rules and to be considerate and patient while on the road.

"Drivers must take into account their own safety and that of others," Pg Roslin said.

He suggested that road users plan their journey ahead of time, as this would allow them to take the best routes and avoid areas of frequent congestion.

Pg Rosli assured the public that the Investigation and Traffic Section of the Royal Brunei Police would continue to play its part in ensuring the steady flow of traffic at all times and throughout the festivities. In fact, given the rise in traffic volume during this period, the vigilance of traffic enforcers would be stepped up for the safety of all road users. Regular inspections will be conducted and roadblocks set up to make sure all vehicles and drivers are "roadworthy"

The increase in the number of accidents during the festive season may be attributed to the high number of motorists during that time. Other factors also play a role.

Mohd Ariffin, a local counsel for with a background in social psychology, said it is Bruneians' attitude to road safety that leads to mishaps.

"Bruneian drivers are not disciplined, due to the fact that the government does not impose very strict laws and does not give strict enough repercussions to those that break these laws," said Mohd Ariffin. He said he believed that this was why local motorists are prone to accidents.

Fatigue, drowsiness, reckless driving and the use of cellphones by motorists who want to show off lead to vehicular accidents.

Mohd Ariffin suggested that the relevant authorities install CCTV cameras at traffic junctions, highways and roundabouts. -- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

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