“If there’s no seat belt or it’s broken, am I the one who pays RM300?”
That’s the question that popped up among bus passengers after the government’s latest ruling.
Starting 1 July, passengers who fail to buckle up can be fined RM300.
On paper, it’s about safety.
But on the ground, it feels like a rule many didn’t see coming and are not so sure how they can follow.
A Law Meant to Protect — But For Whom?
According to Free Malaysia Today (FMT) on 30 June, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook says the goal is clear: reduce injuries in bus accidents.
But the reality is, many passengers don’t even realize seat belts exist on their bus rides.
Ask yourself, can you remember when was the last time you wore a bus seatbelt?
Why We Take the Bus in the First Place
Let’s not forget who this affects the most.
Long-distance buses are used by students, low-income workers, migrant families, and older folks who can’t afford flights or cars.
They ride the bus because it’s cheaper than flying or driving.
They just want a safe and affordable way to reach home.
And RM 300 is not small change.
Abu Hassan Awang, who heads the Peninsular Malaysia Malay Express Bus Operators Association, says operators back the new safety rule but want a buffer period so riders aren’t hit right away.
“JPJ should not immediately resort to issuing fines, as most express bus passengers are from the B40 income group.”
He suggested issuing warnings first, then new regulation.
So, What Would Happen Next?
Instead of just penalizing passengers, many are calling for:
- Better inspection and bus maintenance
- A grace period with public education campaigns before enforcement
- Clear signs inside buses
- Shared accountability between operators and passengers
If the rule is meant to protect lives, shouldn’t it start by ensuring the bus is actually equipped to do so?
RM300 might be a small price in the name of safety.
But for Malaysians riding the bus home during festive seasons, for work, or for school — it’s not just a fine. It’s a fear.
Before we fine the passenger, maybe we need to ask:
Was there even a working seat belt in the first place?
Doris Tan (doristanwl@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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