Highways are not places for reckless riding on motorcycles

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Fatal motorcycle crashes on Malaysian highways increased by 32.5% from 2023 to 2025, with 2,732 deaths recorded over the period due to aggressive riding behaviors. In response, officials and advocates are calling for stronger enforcement measures and tougher penalties to curb these dangerous practices and improve road safety.

Reckless motorcycle riding on Malaysian highways and expressways has become a growing concern, posing significant risks to all road users. While motorcycles remain an essential and affordable mode of transportation, increasingly aggressive riding behaviours such as speeding, abrupt lane changes, and dangerous overtaking maneuvers are now more frequently observed on high-speed roads, escalating the likelihood of serious accidents.

According to data from the Royal Malaysia Police Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), fatal motorcycle crashes on highways and expressways increased notably over the past three years. Incidents rose from 805 fatal crashes in 2023 to 860 in 2024, reaching 1,067 in 2025. This represents a 32.5% increase, with a total of 2,732 fatalities recorded between 2023 and 2025.

Experts warn that the higher speeds on highways leave little room for error or reaction, meaning a single lapse in judgement by a motorcyclist can lead to fatal consequences not only for the rider but also for other motorists. When motorcycles weave unpredictably through traffic, other drivers risk losing control or colliding with nearby vehicles in attempts to avoid crashes.

In response to these developments, road safety advocates and officials alike have urged authorities to strengthen enforcement efforts on highways. Suggested measures include increasing patrol presence, deploying more speed and automated enforcement cameras, and utilizing drone surveillance in high-risk locations. Advocates also recommend imposing harsher penalties on riders who engage in dangerous behaviours, with repeat offences potentially resulting in suspension or revocation of motorcycle licences.

Some experts have called for even more stringent actions if enforcement alone proves insufficient. These could involve restricting motorcycle access on certain expressways or particularly hazardous sections of highways, guided by comprehensive accident data and safety assessments.

The consensus underscores that highways must remain safe and predictable environments for all users, with reckless motorcycle riding seen as incompatible with this objective. Authorities are urged to take decisive steps to address the issue promptly in order to prevent further loss of life.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.