“Children, the road safety skills you learn today are as important as any subject you study in school”, said MOS Faishal at this year’s Singapore Traffic Games!
By: SPF Insider
On November 8, 2024, the Traffic Police (TP), Singapore Road Safety Council (SRSC), and Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS), supported by the Ministry of Education and Tote Board, held the Singapore Traffic Games (STG) grand finals at the Road Safety Community Park. Guest of Honour Minister of State (MOS), Ministry of Home Affairs & Ministry of National Development Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, highlighted the importance of cultivating road safety awareness among children, noting the role that parents and caregivers play in setting a positive example.
Since its inception in 1958, the Traffic Games has been central to TP’s road safety education, reaching over 16,000 children from 122 primary schools and 15 kindergartens this year. Children learn about traffic laws by playing roles like pedestrians, cyclists, and go-kart drivers, encouraging road safety habits early in life.
In his speech, MOS Faishal said, "Unfortunately, we have had some tragic accidents involving children this year. As a parent myself, I know how important it is to keep our children safe. That is why parents, grandparents, and caregivers all play a big role in teaching good road safety habits. So, let's be mindful always to set a good example. Children, the road safety skills you learn today are as important as any subject you study in school. I think it’s more important because it’s your life. Practice what you have learned whenever you are near a road. You are not just keeping yourself safe but helping to make the roads safer for everyone."
A total of 28 primary schools participated this year in the STG qualifying rounds, held from 29 to 31 July 2024, with 15 primary schools progressing to the finals. Riverside Primary School emerged as the champion, accumulated the lowest number of demerit points and will be keeping the STG Challenge Shield for a year.
TP premiered a road safety video, “Cross Safely,” spotlighting the dangers of children playing unsupervised near roads. Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police (DAC) Lionel Bok, Covering Commander of Traffic Police, emphasised the importance of both enforcement and education to prevent accidents, urging all road users to be vigilant, especially in school zones.
DAC Lionel Bok, Covering Commander of Traffic Police, summed up TP's approach, "For more than 60 years, the Singapore Traffic Games has been a key component of our road safety education efforts. The new video campaign enhances our suite of education programmes. While we are tough on enforcement, education plays an equally crucial role in preventing accidents involving children. We urge all road users to abide by traffic laws and be extra cautious in areas populated with children, such as school zones. Let's protect our children by being responsible and safe road users."
TP remains committed to enhancing road safety, especially for children. Together with our stakeholders and partners, let's create a safer roads environment for all.