We thank Mr Darion Lim for his letter, “Lifelong driver education a better approach” (25 Feb 2025).
The Traffic Police (TP) shares Mr Lim's concerns about the recent rise in traffic accidents. For our roads to become safer, drivers indeed need to be more responsible on the roads, instead of being solely deterred by enforcement and harsher penalties. TP adopts a three-pronged approach – Education, Engagement and Enforcement – to encourage positive changes in the mindset, attitudes and behaviours of all road users, including drivers.
TP works closely with our partners to shape behaviour from young. For instance, TP conducts the Singapore Traffic Games at the Road Safety Community Park for primary school students. The Park allows students to practise good road safety habits and develop an understanding of traffic rules in an immersive, safe and simulated environment. TP also conducts public outreach through programmes such as the Ride Safe and Anti Drink Driving campaigns to remind motorists to drive responsibly. The recently launched Road Safety Day initiative, which will be conducted across various heartland locations over the next two years, is another example.
All motorists can enrol for refresher training courses at the various driving schools to strengthen their defensive driving techniques and road safety awareness. For those who have accumulated demerit points, the Driver Improvement Points System Re-Training Course and Safe Driving Course provide structured programmes to correct driving behaviour and driving habits.
That said, while shaping the mindsets and attitudes of road users is important, enforcement remains necessary to reinforce accountability, and to deter those who persist in driving recklessly and irresponsibly.
The key to lasting road safety lies in the community working together with TP and its partners to foster a culture of responsible road use.
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (MEDIA RELATIONS DIVISION)
PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
04 March 2025 @ 10:47 AM