The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has been instructed to issue summonses to anyone found riding a motorcycle without wearing a helmet during the Johor State Election (PRN) campaign, based on videos circulating on social media.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said enforcement would be carried out regardless of political affiliation, including against those involved in Pakatan Harapan (PH) campaign convoys in Johor.
He said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) takes seriously the viral footage allegedly showing several PH campaign workers, including members from DAP, riding motorcycles without helmets while taking part in campaign activities.
“I have instructed JPJ to issue summonses to anyone found violating this rule based on the available video evidence, regardless of their political background.
“This includes those involved in PH campaign convoys in Johor,” he said in a statement on Friday.
Anthony said his position on helmet usage has remained consistent over the years and recalled raising the same issue during the Slim by-election campaign nearly six years ago.
He stressed that while using motorcycles for election campaigns is not an offence, all riders are still legally required to wear helmets and set a good example for the public.
“This principle applies equally to everyone without exception, including Pakatan Harapan candidates and campaign workers.
“Road safety laws do not recognise political parties,” he said.
The DAP secretary-general added that road safety laws must be enforced fairly and equally against all Malaysians without favouritism.
“I will not compromise on this principle even if it involves my own campaign colleagues.
“The safety of the people must always come before political interests,” he said.
Earlier, a video went viral showing a group of DAP campaign workers taking part in a motorcycle convoy decorated with PH flags, with many of the riders allegedly not wearing helmets.
