Child rights activists, parents, and officials are calling for stricter actions against parents who do not ensure their children are belted up in cars or seated in appropriate child car seats. This demand follows the circulation of a viral video showing a man driving without a seatbelt while a child was not in a car seat.
According to MalaysiaKini, Dr. Hartini Zainudin, a child activist, stresses the need to issue fines against negligent parents to promote responsible behaviour and ensure compliance with traffic laws and safety regulations.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke previously mandated the usage of child restraint systems (CRS) in private vehicles in 2020. Despite an initial period of public education, activists now advocate for enforcement, including fines, under the Road Transport Act 1987.
Farah Nini Dusuki, a Suhakam commissioner, suggests imposing fines on parents under existing laws and addressing concerns about prioritizing convenience over safety. She emphasises the importance of holding negligent parents accountable under the Child Act 2001.
While acknowledging financial concerns, Natasha Zainal, a mother of two, supports fines against parents but suggests at least the youngest child use a CRS. Wong Poai Hong, director of the Childline Foundation, proposes a holistic approach involving car manufacturers and dealers to address affordability issues. She recommends bundling car seats with car sales and emphasizes education and proper installation to ensure effectiveness.
The consensus among advocates is clear: stricter enforcement and measures to address affordability are essential to ensure the safety of children in vehicles.
