Dummy Buckles Put Lives At Risk Urgent Ban Needed Cap

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Negri Sembilan Road Transport Department (RTD) director Hanif Yusabra Yusuf holding a dummy buckle discovered during the recent OP TBC - NSTP FILE PICGEORGETOWN: The Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) has urged the Transport Ministry and the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry to immediately ban the sale of dummy buckles, a device used to deactivate seatbelt alarms.
CAP President Mohideen Abdul Kader said that although awareness campaigns highlighting the risks of dummy buckles have been conducted since 2020, their sale continues unchecked.
Furthermore, the lack of legislation prohibiting the sale of these products has allowed them to remain a concern.
"CAP has raised this issue several times, yet no action has been taken.
"The sale of these products must be banned, including online purchases," he said in a statement today.
Pertubuhan Damai Revolusi Masyarakat president P. Shahdrasegar called for an immediate ban on the sale and use of dummy buckles, which are easily available on e-commerce platforms for as little as RM3 to RM8 each.
"Aside from compromising safety, users risk being fined, yet the sale of these products remains legal," he said.
Negri Sembilan Road Transport Department (RTD) director Hanif Yusabra Yusuf has expressed concern over the growing trend of vehicle owners using dummy buckles.
He said offenders frequently claim seat belts are uncomfortable as an excuse for their actions.
Hanif said failure to wear a seatbelt was the most common major offence recorded during Chinese New Year's operation or Op TBC, which ran from Jan 20 to Feb 9.
He said dummy buckles were easily available and could be purchased online, in car accessory shops, and convenience stores.
"Based on conversations with drivers using this device, we found that it can be bought for less than RM20.
"These buckles are readily available almost anywhere.
"RTD is concerned as this has become a trend.
"When asked , some said the seatbelt was uncomfortable, while others claimed they simply forgot (to buckle their seatbelt)," he said.
He stressed the importance of wearing a seatbelt, as it reduces the risk of severe injuries or fatalities during an accident. - Star

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