Installation of ABS system to be compulsory for new motorcycles 150cc above

MELAKA, May 24 (Bernama) -- A detailed study towards making the installation of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) compulsory for all new motorcycles will be implemented soon.

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said the installation will be compulsory for all new motorcycles with 150cc engine capacity and above.

He explained that the study by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) is expected to be finalised within six months, with the implementation of the ABS system installation expected within two years from when the study is completed.

"The same period will also be used to amend existing laws for the purpose of making the installation of ABS compulsory.

“But I stress that this is not made hastily or in a rush. We won’t just announce today expecting it to be implemented tomorrow. We give MIROS six months to conduct a study, discuss with consumer representatives, stakeholders and the motorcycle manufacturers and another two years for implemenetation,“ he said at a media conference after attending the MIROS’ 10th anniversary celebrations at MIROS PC3 Crash Lab, Ayer Molek here today. 

MIROS Board of Directors’ Chairman Prof Dr Wong Shaw Voon, MIROS director-general Datuk Khairil Anwar Abu Kassim and Melaka Works, Transport, Public Facilities, Infrastructure and Flood Management Committee chairman Datuk Rahmad Mariman were also present.

Wee said the implementation will be conducted in phases and if effective, will be continued to motorcycles of under 150cc.

He added that this matter was important as the ABS system was capable of reducing crashes and fatalities involving motorcyclists by 30 per cent.

"As we all know, the main factor of motorcycle crashes in Malaysia is skidding or being unable to avoid a crash while riding, majority of them due to ineffective brake systems,” he said.

"Therefore, ABS systems using anti-skid technology will help prevent motorcycles from skidding, crashing and losing control, and improve the safety of motorcycles in Malaysia,” he said.

-- BERNAMA