The Federal Highway is set to receive a much-needed upgrade to its motorcycle lanes, with an infusion of RM20 million coming its way, according to The Star. Works minister Alexander Nanta Linggi said the investment, part of an ongoing effort to enhance motorcycle safety, is in line with Rolling Plan 5 under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK12) that ends this year.
However, Nanta Linggi pushed back on a suggestion to build dedicated bike lanes on all major roads to cut down on high motorcycle accident rates. In a written parliamentary reply to a question from Baling MP Hassan Saad, he said that there were currently no plans to do so due to the costs involved, adding that efforts to build more bike lanes have been in the works for several years.
“We have carried out construction of motorcycle lanes in selected locations on federal roads for over a decade, he said. “These include exclusive motorcycle lanes, physically separated from the main road, and non-exclusive lanes built on widened road shoulders.”
The government has to conduct comprehensive studies before new bike lanes are constructed, Nanta Linggi said, in order to avoid new conflicts on roads with numerous entry and exit points. “Technical justifications are essential, covering traffic volume, motorcycle composition, accident rates, and side friction scores (FS).
“Financial considerations are also crucial, given the high costs associated with construction, land acquisition, and utility relocation,” he added.
Nanta Linggi concluded by saying that the government is committed to ensuring motorist safety and comfort, particularly motorcyclists with the continued studying of the need for dedicated lanes. He previously said in April that the ministry was considering building bike lanes on new highways and that it was working with highway concessionaires like PLUS to establish dedicated rain shelters on space-limited elevated highways.
Penang Tun Dr. Lim Chong Eu Hwy only 30% to 40% motorcycle user use , nobody care also no break the law if not use ,police also no take action …
Bike lanes have to pass multiple traffic lights, so better fix this problem
What is the point when the majority of bikers ignore the rules and still use the main highway instead of the bike lanes. The police don’t give a damn!
So those who follow the rules don’t deserve a better and safer bike lane?
Subject: Enforcement of Motorcycle Regulations on the Federal Highway
The recent upgrades to the Federal Highway have significantly improved driving conditions for motorists. However, the frequent misuse of car lanes by motorcyclists remains a serious safety concern.
Motorcycle lanes are purpose-built to protect riders and ensure safer traffic flow. When motorcyclists choose to ride in car lanes, they not only endanger themselves but also disrupt traffic and undermine the intended function of the highway—an asset built with significant taxpayer funding.
Continuous enforcement is impractical; therefore, stricter regulations are necessary. Motorcyclists should be legally prohibited from using car lanes except in emergencies. Substantial fines must be imposed on offenders to deter non-compliance and promote accountability.
Comparative examples from Europe show that clear legal provisions, automated monitoring, and consistent penalties are effective in enforcing motorcycle lane usage. Similar approaches are being adopted in developing countries to reduce accidents and protect public infrastructure.
To ensure road safety and safeguard public investment, immediate regulatory action and firm enforcement are essential.
Wow, 20M. What if the bikes don’t use and continue to use the main lanes?
Any action will be taken?
Plz make the bike lane convenient for riders, no need to pass through traffic lights