Mandatory Seatbelt Use In Buses Is Paving Way For Safer Vmy 2026 Travels

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BEGINNING July 2025, Malaysia will enforce mandatory seatbelt use for all passengers in buses—a decisive move signalling the government’s commitment to road safety and the protection of lives.

While the decision is a response to past tragic road accidents that shook public confidence, it also marks a proactive shift in national safety standards, especially in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026).
The campaign aims to attract 35.6 million international tourists and generate RM147.1 bil in tourism receipts. Ensuring safe and reliable transportation is essential to achieving these ambitious goals.
Malaysia has witnessed a concerning trend of road accidents involving buses, particularly during peak travel periods. Investigations have revealed that many fatalities could have been prevented had passengers been secured with seatbelts.
Passengers thrown from vehicles upon impact remain one of the primary causes of death. The new regulation will significantly reduce such risks and help align Malaysia’s safety protocols with international standards observed in top tourist destinations.
Road safety is not just a technical issue—it’s central to tourism confidence. In the digital age, any incident can quickly go viral and shape global perceptions of a country.
By reinforcing safety measures, Malaysia sends a clear message to travellers: your well-being is our top priority.
This is particularly crucial for international visitors unfamiliar with local transportation practices, who often rely on buses to explore the country’s natural wonders, cultural sites, and urban centres.
This reform complements VM2026’s broader objectives of sustainable and inclusive tourism. Families, senior citizens, and school groups—common bus passengers—require added assurance when travelling across diverse terrains from Penang to Sabah.

The implementation of seatbelt rules will help ensure safe passage, creating a more enjoyable and secure journey for all demographics.
Beyond personal safety, this step elevates Malaysia’s standing in responsible tourism, echoing the campaign’s core theme: offering memorable experiences in a safe and welcoming environment.
(Image: The Star)Beyond regulatory mandates, true effectiveness lies in awareness and enforcement. The government should launch a robust public education campaign to familiarise passengers with the importance of seatbelt use, not as an inconvenience, but as a life-saving habit.
Clear visual signage in buses, announcements before departure, and proactive involvement from bus operators will drive cultural change.
Continuous training for drivers, routine safety checks, and transparent channels for passenger feedback will also reinforce confidence in Malaysia’s transport system.

Authorities should also enforce this policy consistently and fairly. Spot checks, penalties for non-compliance, and strict licensing conditions for bus operators will ensure long-term impact.
Moreover, tourists often judge a country’s professionalism by how it handles seemingly minor details, such as seatbelt availability and enforcement, which may appear small. However, they hold significant weight in shaping an international reputation.
Malaysia has long prided itself on being “Truly Asia”—a melting pot of cultures, landscapes, and flavours. But a truly world-class experience requires the integration of safety into every element of travel.
Mandatory seatbelt use will elevate Malaysia’s profile among global travellers who seek not only adventure but also assurance.

As VM2026 draws near, measures like these are more than policies—they’re strategic investments into the tourism industry’s resilience and credibility. Safer roads mean fewer disruptions, fewer tragedies, and better reviews.
The decision also benefits domestic tourism and long-distance commuters, demonstrating that government efforts are inclusive and benefit all strata of society.
Malaysia is poised to make VM2026 a landmark celebration of culture, heritage, and natural beauty. But the journey must be as safe as the destination is spectacular.
Mandatory seatbelts in buses are one step forward toward a tourism landscape where safety is standard, and every visitor feels protected, welcomed, and inspired.
The author, Dr Cheah Chan Fatt is a Research Fellow at the Ungku Aziz Centre for Development Studies (UAC), Universiti Malaya.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT. 
- Focus Malaysia.

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