Road safety in Malaysia is under serious threat due to drug and alcohol use among commercial drivers. The transport industry, which plays a vital role in the country’s economy, is facing mounting concerns over the rising number of accidents linked to substance impairment.
From January to October 2024 alone, Malaysia recorded 532,125 road accidents, with 5,364 fatalities. Many of these cases involved heavy vehicles such as lorries and buses, raising questions about the effectiveness of existing safety regulations.
Recent incidents, including fatal crashes and nationwide enforcement operations, highlight the urgent need for stricter drug and alcohol testing policies in the transport industry.
LEARN MORE: How to Implement Drug and Alcohol Testing in Malaysia.
Drug-Using Lorry Drivers Pose a Growing Threat
In September of 2024, the Transport Ministry confirmed a rise in fatal crashes caused by drug-using lorry drivers. This has prompted stricter checks on heavy vehicle safety.
However, the issue of drug and alcohol use among drivers is also a pressing issue that needs to be monitored to ensure that drivers do not operate under the influence. Regular drug and alcohol testing will help employers make informed decisions and remove drivers from duty if found to be impaired or intoxicated.
Substance use among transport workers impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, significantly increasing accident risks. Despite current regulations, many commercial drivers are not regularly screened for drugs or alcohol after being hired.
Alcohol Consumption Remains a Critical Concern
Alcohol is a major factor in road accidents, but enforcement within the transport industry remains inconsistent. Many employers fail to conduct regular alcohol breath testing, leaving gaps in safety measures.
Authorities and industry stakeholders must recognise that occasional roadside enforcement is not enough—there must be a systematic testing approach to prevent alcohol-related crashes.
Recent Incidents Highlighting the Need for Action
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Chinese New Year Crackdown (Jan 2025):
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- Six bus drivers tested positive for drugs during a nationwide operation involving 420 drivers.
- The results prove that random testing works and should be implemented by all transport companies.
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Taiping Tour Bus Crash (Oct 2024):
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- A 73-year-old Japanese tourist died after a bus collided with a truck.
- The driver of the bus was found to have previous narcotic offences and was wanted by the police.
- Raises concerns over whether commercial drivers undergo routine drug and alcohol testing.
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Rising Heavy Vehicle Accidents in 2024:
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- The first quarter of 2024 alone saw 652 accidents involving heavy vehicles, with 287 resulting in fatalities.
- Driver negligence, fatigue, and possible substance use were among the contributing factors.
Why the Transport Industry Needs Stricter Drug and Alcohol Testing
Despite these alarming statistics, many transport companies do not conduct regular drug and alcohol testing beyond pre-employment screening. Here’s why stricter testing is essential:
- Ensures safer roads: Reduces accident risks caused by impaired driving.
- Protects businesses: Minimises legal liabilities and reputational damage.
- Improves driver accountability: Encourages responsible behaviour among transport workers.
- Supports enforcement efforts: Strengthens compliance with safety regulations.
How Employers Can Implement a Drug and Alcohol Testing Program
Routine and Random Testing
- Conduct pre-employment drug and alcohol tests.
- Implement random and post-incident testing for active drivers.
- Use drug testing kits for drug detection and breathalysers for alcohol screening.
Education and Awareness Programs
- Train employees on the dangers of drug and alcohol use.
- Promote a zero-tolerance policy for substance abuse.
- Encourage reporting of suspicious behaviour among drivers.
Invest in Reliable Testing Equipment
- Transport companies must use high-quality drug testing kits and alcohol breath testers.
- Andatech Malaysia provides accurate, user-friendly testing solutions tailored for the transport industry.
Stricter Testing is No Longer Optional
The transport industry must act now to prevent more avoidable tragedies. The recent increase in drug and alcohol-related crashes proves that random and mandatory testing should be the norm, not an exception.
Don’t wait for another disaster—take proactive steps today.
Contact Andatech Malaysia for reliable drug and alcohol testing solutions and help keep your drivers and the public safe.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general reference only. Please seek advice from professionals according to your business’s needs.
Written by Andatech Malaysia
