SANDAKAN: Folks residing in Taman Utama near Jalan Bandar Utama 1 are urging the police, local authorities and the developer to take sustained action against illegal street racing, excessive vehicle noise and other disruptive activities that continue despite repeated complaints.
Residents said police patrols were appreciated, but the relief was often temporary, as those involved would disperse upon the arrival of policemen and return shortly afterwards.
Groups of vehicles, including modified cars, pickup trucks and motorcycles, have reportedly been gathering along the road to test loud exhausts and sound systems, use simulated police sirens and display unauthorised lighting. Some vehicles also have extremely lowered or adjustable suspensions.
These activities have raised concerns over noise pollution and road safety, particularly amid reports of traffic accidents and dangerous driving elsewhere.
Residents fear that without firm and consistent enforcement, the situation could lead to a serious accident resulting in injuries or loss of life.
A concerned resident said he had been proposing the installation of speed bumps along the road since last year, urging the relevant authorities to consider traffic-calming measures to curb speeding, deter illegal drag racing and prevent dangerous motorcycle stunts.
He called for the proposal to be considered seriously and implemented as soon as possible to reduce the risk of an avoidable tragedy.
Residents also believe that the rapid growth of Bandar Utama warrants consideration of a dedicated community police post, or Pondok Polis, to strengthen security, improve monitoring and enable a faster response to complaints.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Royal Malaysia Police, residents stressed that occasional patrols alone were insufficient to resolve the recurring problem.
They are calling for a coordinated and sustained response from PDRM, the relevant local authorities and the developer to address the issue at its source, improve road safety and restore peace and order along Jalan Bandar Utama 1. – James Leong
A screenshot showing a motorcyclist performing a wheelie without wearing a safety helmet along Jalan Bandar Utama 1.
