Abu Hassan Awang, chairman of the Peninsular Malaysia Malay Express Bus Operators Association, suggested that warnings be issued first to ensure wider public awareness of the new regulation.

“We support the government’s policy to ensure the safety of express bus drivers and passengers,” he told FMT.

“However, there should be a grace period. JPJ should not immediately resort to issuing fines, as most express bus passengers are from the B40 income group.”

Yesterday, JPJ director-general Aedy Fadly Ramli said that drivers and passengers of express and tour buses will be required to wear seat belts starting July 1.

He said the ruling would apply to buses manufactured after January 2020, while buses built before 2020 would be granted a grace period to install seat belts, Berita Harian reported.

Aedy said it was the driver’s responsibility to ensure that passengers have fastened their seat belts before the bus departs. Those who fail to comply will be fined RM300.

He added that JPJ would not compromise on the matter, noting that discussions had already been held with bus operators, and guidelines issued on the directive.

Zainal Abidin Mehat, chairman of the Malaysian Bumiputra Bus Operators Organisation, said the new directive was justified given the potential risks associated with long-distance and tour bus travel.

He welcomed the government’s initiative, stressing that seat belts are a crucial safety feature.

“Bus operators have had ample time to meet the requirements, and this move is undoubtedly in the best interest of passengers,” he added.

Earlier this month, transport minister Loke Siew Fook said the bus involved in the crash that killed 15 students from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris on the East-West Highway was not fitted with passenger seat belts.

He said the bus was manufactured in 2013, seven years before seat belt installation became mandatory for newly manufactured buses, Berita Harian reported.