Works Ministry expands shelters on federal roads after rising motorcycle accident concerns

PETALING JAYA: The Works Ministry is expanding safety measures for motorcyclists on federal roads, including doubling the number of dedicated shelters to 400 nationwide.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi told the Dewan Negara that more than 200 shelters have already been built, with the expansion aimed at reducing risks for riders who often stop under trees or flyovers.

“We have introduced motorcycle lanes for new highways together with concessionaires. But many older highways cannot be widened. That is why shelters are important – so motorcyclists have safe places to stop,” he said.

He was responding to Senator Datuk Dr Mustafa Musa, who raised concerns over rider safety and cited Transport Ministry data showing 6,537 fatal road accidents in 2025, of which 4,340 involved motorcycles.

Separately, Nanta said 54,055 road complaints were logged via the MyJalan app as of January 2026, with about 30% involving roads under the Works Ministry. District engineers are tasked with addressing risks such as water ponding and faded lane markings within 24 hours, especially when accident risks are involved.

He added that increased road maintenance allocations for 2026 will help ensure pavement conditions remain optimal for all road users.

 The Sun Malaysia