ABS system to be made compulsory for new motorcycles 150cc and above

A detailed study towards making the installation of an anti-lock braking system (ABS) compulsory for all new motorcycles will be implemented soon, Transport Minister Wee Ka Siong said today.

He said the installation would be compulsory for all new motorcycles with engine capacities of 150cc and above.

He added that the study by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) is expected to be finalised within six months, with the implementation of the ABS system installation expected within two years from when the study is completed.

“The same period will also be used to amend the existing laws for the purpose of making the installation of ABS compulsory.

“But I stress that this is not made hastily or in a rush. We won’t just announce today expecting it to be implemented tomorrow. We gave Miros six months to conduct a study, discuss with consumer representatives, stakeholders and the motorcycle manufacturers and another two years for implemenetation,” he said at a media conference after attending Miros’ 10th anniversary celebrations in Ayer Molek, Melaka.

Miros board of directors chairman Wong Shaw Voon, director-general Khairil Anwar Abu Kassim and Melaka works, transport, public facilities, infrastructure and flood management committee chairman Rahmad Mariman were also present.

Wee said the implementation would be conducted in phases and, if effective, would be extended to motorcycles with engine capacities of under 150cc.

He said this was an important matter as the ABS system was capable of reducing crashes and fatalities involving motorcyclists by 30%.

“As we all know, the main factor of motorcycle crashes in Malaysia is skidding or being unable to avoid a crash while riding, the majority of them due to ineffective brake systems,” he said.

“Therefore, ABS systems using anti-skid technology will help prevent motorcycles from skidding, crashing and losing control, and improve the safety of motorcycles in Malaysia.”