Federal traffic police chief Azisman Alias said the suggestion to the transport ministry and the road transport department (JPJ) was based on the number of cases involving senior citizens who were caught driving against the flow of traffic and committing other offences, such as at traffic lights and road junctions.
“We need to assess the capability of senior citizens on the road because of the risk posed to other road users as well as themselves,” said Azisman at a press conference here today.
“There have been several cases involving drivers under the influence of drugs and alcohol. We also see a rising number of cases of driving against the flow involving the elderly aged 60 to 70 years and above.
“When the police detained them, it was apparent some of them aged 70 and above had some sort of dementia or senility,” he said. “Some of them were also found to be not alert to certain traffic conditions.”
According to the federal traffic investigation and enforcement department, a total of 804 road deaths last year, or 17% of the overall number, involved drivers and bikers above 61.
He suggested that the medical fraternity alongside the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) conduct a study on the possibility of introducing aptitude or cognitive tests for elderly drivers.
“They (senior citizens) should only be allowed to renew their licences provided they undergo a medical check-up and receive confirmation from a doctor that they are fit to drive, mentally and physically.”
He cited developed countries such as the UK, Canada, Singapore and Australia, which have introduced similar tests.
Across the Causeway, drivers aged above 65 must undergo an annual medical examination by a medical practitioner.
Azisman, who will be retiring next week, also said the licence validity period for senior citizens should be limited to a certain period unlike the current practice.
“Today, those with a clean record can renew their licences for up to five years. If this is allowed for senior citizens, it means they can drive without any tests to gauge their capability,” he said.
“Firearms licences, for example, are only issued for one year after meeting certain conditions.”