Sarawak records 21,747 road accidents in 2025, 384 involving fatal accidents — Minister

MIRI (Feb 3): A total of 21,747 road accidents were recorded throughout Sarawak last year, which was an increase by 14 cases compared to the 21,733 cases in the previous year, said Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.

He said of the total recorded in 2025, 384 involved fatal accidents, which was an increase of 22 cases from 362 cases in 2024.

“Serious accidents rose slightly to 139 cases, up by two cases compared with 137 in 2024. However, minor accidents recorded a slight decline, with 239 cases last year compared with 255 cases previously,” he said when officiating the Road Safety Campaign held in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year celebration at the Shell petrol station in Permyjaya here yesterday.

Lee added that the remaining cases involved accidents resulting in vehicle damage only, totalling 20,985 cases in 2025 compared with 21,733 cases the year before.

On the breakdown of accidents by district, he said Miri recorded the second-highest number of road accidents in Sarawak, with 3,516 cases.

“These statistics clearly show that road safety remains a serious concern, even though most accidents involve vehicle damage only. Nevertheless, every case carries significant implications for the safety of lives and the well-being of the community,” he said.

Lee stressed that road safety continues to be a major challenge and requires greater awareness and cooperation from all parties.

He emphasised that road safety was not solely the responsibility of the government or enforcement agencies, but a shared responsibility of all road users.

“The government will continue to implement various initiatives, including upgrading infrastructure and conducting road safety awareness campaigns.

“However, the real impact can only be achieved when everyone is prepared to change their attitudes and become more responsible road users by adhering to speed limits and traffic regulations,” he said.

Also present were Miri Resident Galong Luang, Miri police chief Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah, Shell Malaysia general manager for corporate relations (East Malaysia) Jonathan Jolly, and Sarawak Road Transport Department (JPJ) director Norizan Jili.