Fatal motorcycle crashes on expressways hit three-year high

SHAH ALAM – The number of fatal motorcycle crashes on highways and expressways nationwide is showing a worrying upward trend, with a total of 2,732 cases recorded over the past three years.

Statistics reveal that 805 cases were recorded in 2023, rising to 860 in 2024, before jumping sharply to 1,067 cases in 2025.

According to the Federal Police Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), the primary factors behind these accidents stem from riders' attitudes and behaviour, including reckless riding and negligence when entering or exiting junctions.

“Riding at high speeds and in a dangerous manner further increases the risk of losing control.

“Following other vehicles too closely also contributes to serious and fatal crashes, especially on busy, high-speed roads,” JSPT told Sinar.

The department stated that enforcement measures to reduce crash and fatality rates involving motorcyclists on federal, state and highway routes now include stepped-up roadblocks and regular patrols at high-risk locations.

Efforts are specifically focused on major offences such as speeding, dangerous riding, running red lights, failing to wear helmets and using unauthorised lanes.

“In addition, the use of technology such as speed cameras, the Automated Awareness Safety System (AwAS) and highway surveillance drones has been intensified to automatically detect offences,” the statement added.

Other measures include special enforcement during festive seasons, firm action against illegal modifications, and closer cooperation with highway concessionaires.

Interestingly, motorcycles with engine capacities of 250cc and below recorded the highest number of fatal and serious crashes, totaling 28,881 cases in 2025 alone, a slight decrease from previous years but still accounting for the vast majority of incidents.

In contrast, crashes involving motorcycles above 250cc remained relatively stable, with 673 cases recorded in 2025.

In light of these figures, the department suggested that Malaysia could consider restrictions on motorcycle access to highways based on engine capacity or specific time periods, similar to policies in the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam.

“This approach could help reduce conflicts between low-powered motorcycles and heavy, high-speed vehicles, particularly on tolled highways designed for fast-moving traffic,” the JSPT added.

However, the department stressed that any such implementation must be comprehensively assessed, taking into account riders’ reliance on motorcycles for daily transport, socio-economic implications and the availability of safe alternative routes.