Make changes for safe use of personal vehicles, says planner

 

Mopeds and e-scooters have been banned on public roads but the government is working out new rules. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: Local authorities should create safe spaces for the use of electric scooters and other micromobility vehicles, says a transport expert.

Rosli Azad Khan said the government should modify urban landscapes to accommodate and encourage the use of such vehicles, such as e-scooters and mopeds.

“The government should direct the local government and housing ministry to take the lead,” as the ministry controlled all local authorities and local councils.

The authorities should modify pedestrian zones, walkways, and mass transit stations so that micro-mobility vehicles can be used safely in a way that did not conflict with other vehicles on the roads.

“They should not impose any form of licensing or payment, and there should be no restrictions for passengers on mass transit to carry them on board. That will take care of passengers’ first mile and last mile issues,” he said.

Wan Agyl Hassan, the former head of policy and planning at the defunct Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD), said the government had been “too reactionary” in its approach to micromobility.

It had taken the easy approach by banning the use of micromobility on public roads instead of engaging with industry operators, then after complaints, said there will be a new rule on micromobility.

Transport minister Wee Ka Siong said recently that a comprehensive plan and guidelines for micromobility would be completed and unveiled soon.

Two months ago, Wee said that personal vehicles, such as mopeds and electric scooters, had been banned on public roads since Dec 17.

Wan Agyl said the government must recognise the gaps present in the public transport system.

“It doesn’t make sense if we can’t reach our main form of public transport, such as the train,” he said. Without easy access, many people would be forced to seek out alternative travel options. - FMT