KLANG: The Transport Ministry is working together with the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry to ban “dummy seatbelt buckles” to ensure road users’ safety.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said he would discuss this measure with the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry.
Loke said this was because the Transport Ministry had no authority over its sales following growing concerns over the trend in the use of such devices.
He said the use of such devices violates regulations as they cause many drivers and passengers to neglect wearing seatbelts while in a vehicle.
“We know that most modern vehicles are now equipped with sensors. If the seatbelt is not fastened, an alarm or siren will be activated.
“So, these ‘creative’ individuals have come up with dummy buckles to silence the sensors, but they do not wear seatbelts.
“Therefore, we will discuss with the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry to ban their sale in the market,” he said at a press conference at the launch of the Malaysia Maritime Single Window (MMSW) and Chinese New Year celebration.
Loke also reminded road users not to compromise on their safety, especially while on the road.
“I have always emphasised that wearing a seatbelt is not just about following regulations but about safety.
“Do not think of it as merely avoiding an alarm or siren. Seatbelts protect both drivers and passengers, especially those in the front seats,” he said.
Previously, Negri Sembilan Road Transport Department director Hanif Yusabra Yusuf said the highest number of summonses issued during the Chinese New Year Special Operation was for failing to wear seatbelts, with 195 violations recorded with more than 30 per cent of the cases involving the use of dummy buckles.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd