Reminder to our sisters headed to the mosque on motorcycle - Don't let your telekung cause a crash

SHAH ALAM - Wearing long, flowing attire such as a telekung while riding a motorcycle might seem harmless, but it can turn into a serious hazard if it gets caught in the vehicle’s wheels.

For many Malaysian women, especially those heading to or from prayers, wearing a telekung on a motorcycle is common. However, the risk it poses is often underestimated.

According to safety warnings, long clothing can get caught in the back tyre, leading to loss of control of the motorcycle and potentially fatal accidents.

On Nov 2, 2023, it was reported that a tragic accident in Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan, claimed the life of a man and left his wife injured.

The couple, both in their 60s, was on their way to the mosque when the wife’s telekung got caught in the rear wheel of their motorcycle, causing a fatal crash.

To avoid such accidents, riders and pillion passengers should take these precautions:

- Tuck it in or secure your hijab or telekung over your shoulders properly before getting on the motorcycle.

- Wear practical attire, such as trousers while riding.

- Avoid wearing loose clothing or trailing hijab that could get entangled in the wheel or chain of the motorcycle.