Terengganu police deploy 503 personnel for Op Selamat as a dual festive period is expected to bring a major influx of vehicles into the state.
KUALA TERENGGANU: Police are anticipating a significant surge in traffic as the Chinese New Year holiday coincides with the start of Ramadan. Terengganu police chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairudin (pic) said around 350,000 vehicles are expected to enter the state during the Op Selamat 24/2026 operation period from February 15 to 20.
This figure is higher than the typical 300,000 vehicles during Chinese New Year due to the overlapping festive periods. A force of 503 police personnel and officers has been deployed to manage the anticipated congestion and enhance safety.
Authorities have identified 23 traffic congestion hotspots and 22 accident blackspots across the state. To address jams, a special ‘Jammed Squad’ comprising Motorcycle Patrol Units (URB) will be rapidly deployed to affected locations.
Five congestion points have been identified in Kuala Terengganu district, with others in Besut (5), Dungun (3), Setiu (3), Marang (3), Kemaman (3) and Hulu Terengganu (2). During the previous Op Selamat for Chinese New Year 2025, the state recorded 170 accidents with one fatality.
Crime prevention efforts will also be intensified, with daily patrols at vacant houses and premises. The police are monitoring 27 properties registered through the Volunteer Smartphone Patrol (VSP) application.
Nine locations across three districts are categorised as high-risk for property crimes. These areas include Chukai, Ayer Jernih, Kijal, Gong Badak, Manir, Cabang Tiga, Jertih and Kampung Raja.
In preparation for the influx, the East Coast Expressway 2 (LPT2) has opened two additional lanes at the Gemuruh Toll Plaza in Kuala Terengganu. LPT2 regional manager Mohamad Pazli Kasim noted vehicle entries have doubled since Saturday.
A total of 200 RELA personnel have been deployed to strategic locations, including rest and service areas, to assist motorists. The highway operator has also increased patrol units and placed five tow trucks on standby for incident response.
 The Sun Malaysia
