Kedah JPJ director Aman Shah Hashim said the operation, which starts this month, would focus on several locations in the Kuala Muda, Kulim and Kota Setar districts, Bernama reported.

He said JPJ decided to act as motorcyclists were showing a lackadaisical attitude towards safety aspects.

He said in 2023, 1,753 summonses were issued to motorcyclists in the state for not wearing a helmet or wearing one that did not meet specifications, which was more than double the 676 notices issued the year before.

According to Bernama, Kedah JPJ will collaborate with the police, the National Anti-Drug Agency, and the environment department in the operation against errant motorcyclists.

“Data by the World Health Organization shows proper use of a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 70% and reduce the risk of death by up to 40%,” Aman Shah said at a free helmet exchange programme, held in conjunction with Ambang Kedah Sejahtera 2024, at Tasik Darul Aman in Jitra, last night.

He said 684 helmets were distributed to the public, including 180 for children, at the event.

In George Town, the Penang JPJ issued 146 summonses for various offences during a motorcycle operation held in conjunction with New Year celebrations along Lebuhraya Datuk Dr Lim Chong Eu early this morning.

During the operation, 315 motorcycles were inspected from 1am.

A total of 110 riders were issued summonses for various offences, such as riding without a licence, expired road tax, no insurance coverage, fancy registration number plates and unauthorised motorcycle modifications.

The 15 Penang JPJ personnel were assisted by 20 policemen during the operation.