By JAMES LEONG
SANDAKAN: Libaran Member of Parliament Datuk Suhaimi Haji Nasir expressed his condolences to the family of the victim who died in a road accident involving a logging truck at Mile 27, and called for a thorough investigation and stronger enforcement of road safety regulations governing the transportation of timber.
The accident reportedly occurred when the logging truck lost control and crashed into a goods lorry, parked vehicles and roadside stalls. A woman who was operating a stall at the scene was reported to have died at Ulu Dusun Clinic, while several other individuals sustained injuries and received treatment, including at Duchess of Kent Hospital (HDOK) in Sandakan.
Suhaimi said the tragedy represented more than a traffic accident, as it had claimed a life and left a family grappling with the loss of a loved one and its devastating consequences.
He questioned the effectiveness of enforcement measures governing logging trucks, particularly in relation to vehicle roadworthiness, load limits, cargo safety, drivers’ qualifications and compliance with any applicable operating-hour restrictions and designated routes. He stressed that the relevant authorities must explain whether inspections and monitoring were being carried out consistently to protect other road users.
Suhaimi called on the authorities to conduct a comprehensive and transparent investigation to establish the cause of the accident, including the possible roles of vehicle condition, timber load, speed and road conditions. He also urged the police to investigate compliance with any applicable restrictions on logging truck operating hours and verify witness allegations that the truck driver had left the scene. He said appropriate action must be taken if any breach of the law is established.
He further urged the Royal Malaysia Police, the Road Transport Department and other relevant agencies to intensify inspections of logging trucks and review safety measures along high-risk routes shared by local residents, small traders and other motorists. He emphasised that preventive action and enforcement must be consistent rather than strengthened only after fatal accidents occur.
Suhaimi stressed that his calls were not intended to prejudge any party before the investigation was completed, but said the public deserved clear answers and appropriate action.
“The lives of the people must remain the top priority. Enforcement must not be sporadic, and road safety must never be taken lightly. We must not wait for another tragedy before taking action,” he said.
Suhaimi stressed that his calls were not intended to prejudge any party before the investigation was completed, but said the public deserved clear answers and appropriate action.
