On 19 October 2024, in conjunction with the National Bikers’ Weekend (NBW) 2024, the Traffic Police (TP) and Singapore Road Safety Council (SRSC), with the support of Land Transport Authority (LTA), launched the Singapore Ride Safe (SRS) campaign at Changi Exhibition Centre. Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs & Ministry of National Development, was the Guest of Honour.
Accidents involving motorcyclists remain a key concern as they continue to account for a disproportionate number of traffic accidents resulting in injuries or death. In the first half of 2024, motorcyclists and pillion riders were involved in 54.5% of all traffic accidents and made up 61.6% of all traffic fatalities.
The SRS 2024 campaign is part of TP’s ongoing efforts to engage the motorcyclist community. It comprised two segments:
- 1 April to 30 September 2024 – “Reward the Sensible Motorists” 2024; and
- 18 to 20 October 2024, SRS 2024 at the NBW, Changi Exhibition Centre
Reward the Sensible Motorists 2024
On 1 April 2024, TP launched the “Reward the Sensible Motorists” campaign, where TP recognised motorists who practise safe riding and driving habits. This includes actions like signalling before changing lanes and giving way to other motorists and pedestrians. When TP officers spot these good behaviours, they will reward the motorists with goodie bags and feature them on the TP’s “Use Your RoadSense” Facebook page. The campaign highlights that motorcyclists and drivers play an important role in keeping the roads safe for all by adopting good riding and driving habits.
From 1 April to 30 September 2024, a total of 82 motorists were commended by TP. Amongst the 82, some exemplary motorists were presented with a special award sponsored by Harley Davidson during SRS 2024.
MOS Faishal said, “This year’s Singapore Ride Safe campaign carries the tagline – “Gear Up, Ride Safe. Your loved ones await.”. It serves as a poignant reminder that our families and loved ones are waiting for us at home. I urge all motorists to adopt a safety-first attitude and exercise graciousness on the road, as our actions impact not only ourselves but those around us. If everyone commits to this mindset, we can significantly reduce accidents and create safer roads for all.”
Reviewed Safety Standards for Helmets to Ensure Safety of Motorists
Apart from the two road safety campaigns, TP also worked closely with stakeholders and partners, and had recently reviewed the Singapore Standard (SS9) for helmets. The review is aimed at aligning the SS9 with internationally recognised standards and ensuring recency of the motorcycle helmet safety standards in Singapore. This may potentially avail motorcyclists with a wider variety of approved helmets.
Singapore Ride Safe 2024 Campaign at Changi Exhibition Centre
SRS 2024 aims to continue promoting safe riding behaviours among motorcyclists. From 18 to 20 October 2024, in collaboration with the NBW and SRSC, TP will set up an exhibition titled “Spot the Red Flags”, to educate visitors on the importance of conducting a pre-ride check before riding.
During the event, TP’s stakeholders and partners hosted a series of talks and activities to encourage the motorcyclist community to take proactive measures to keep themselves safe on the roads. TP also premiered a new road safety video featuring a delivery rider who met with an accident while rushing to make a delivery in the rain. This emotive video serves as a timely reminder to all motorcyclists to prioritise their safety, ensuring that they return home safely to their loved ones.
This video is part of a broader road safety video campaign launched by TP earlier this year. Members of the public can view these videos during evening primetime slots on free-to-air TV channels. Additionally, the videos will be displayed on outdoor media platforms, including bus stops and HDB lift lobbies. More videos in the series will be released soon.
Commander of Traffic Police, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SAC) Daniel Tan said, “As motorcyclists continue to account for a disproportionate number of traffic casualties, TP has intensified our enforcement efforts against all errant road users. We need to keep our vulnerable road users safe. Road safety is a key priority for all of us. Hence, we have continued to work closely with stakeholders and partners to actively engage road users on safe driving and riding practices. However, these efforts alone are not enough. I urge all motorists to be more responsible and help each other to get home safely.”
Chairman of SRSC, Mr Bernard Tay said, “Many traffic accidents involving motorcyclists are caused by reasons such as failure to keep proper control and failure to keep a proper lookout on the part of the motorcyclists themselves. This year’s Singapore Ride Safe campaign encourages motorcyclists to adhere to safe speeds, wear proper safety gear, and stay vigilant. By practising good riding habits, we can help avoid accidents and protect lives on the road.”
TP and SRSC hope that the SRS 2024 campaign will enhance the safety awareness of the motorcyclists and encourage them to adopt safer riding behaviour. Please refer to Annex for the photographs from the event.
Annex
MOS Faishal delivering his speech at the Singapore Ride Safe 2024 ▼
(From left to right) Senior Group Director, Traffic & Road Operations, LTA, Mr Alvin Chia. Chairman SRSC, Mr Bernard Tay, MOS Faishal and Commander TP, SAC Daniel Tan launching the “Ride Safely” video ▼
(From left to right) Award recipients: Mr Irfan Audin Bin Idris, Ms Foo Xin Wen, Ms Tan Ren Ming, Mr Ken Lim Kai Jing and Mr Yeo Zhi Xiong ▼
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
19 October 2024 @ 5:20 PM