Malaysia has recorded a staggering 3.14 million road accidents over the past six years, averaging 1,720 cases per day, with one of the most common causes being drivers using their phones behind the wheel.
Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director, Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri, revealed to Utusan Malaysia that between 2019 and 2024, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) received millions of traffic accident reports — the majority of which stemmed from reckless or inattentive driving behaviour.
Using mobile phones among main cause
Most road accidents happen because of poor driving attitudes. Common behaviours include using mobile phones while driving, losing control of the vehicle, and general negligence,” he said.
He added that some drivers fail to properly observe intersections, while others don’t notice vehicles, objects, or even animals in front or beside them.
Yearly accident figures show a fluctuating trend, with recent years showing an upward spike:
- 2019: 567,516 cases
- 2020: 418,237 cases
- 2021: 370,286 cases
- 2022: 545,588 cases
- 2023: 599,967 cases
- 2024 (to date): 638,060 cases
Fatal accidents drop despite rising cases
Despite the growing number of accidents, Mohd Yusri said the number of fatal crashes has decreased, thanks to ongoing enforcement efforts.
For example, during the recent Haj holiday travel period, the “Ops Lancar” operation successfully reduced fatal crashes from 84 cases last year to 58 this year.
Since taking over the department, I’ve introduced new strategies to improve enforcement, strengthen investigation processes, and increase transparency. We’ve also ramped up awareness campaigns to educate road users about safety,” he added.
Authorities are urging all Malaysians to stay alert, drive responsibly, and avoid distractions — especially mobile phones — to reduce the growing burden of road accidents across the country.
