The total number of road accident cases in Brunei stands somewhere between 3,110 and 3,598. The Director of Land Transport divulged these statistics at an information and dialogue session regarding the demerit points system this morning at the Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College.
Awang Haji Khalid bin Haji Mustafa noted that the statistics, gathered between 2009 and 2011 pointed to a rise in fatalities. In 2010, 26 cases were recorded and the number rose to 47 in 2011. Â
This year, total fatalities up until May stood at 16. He also pointed out that most of the fatalities were among youths, which should not be taken lightly, as it is every individual's responsibility to make Brunei roads safer, and not just government enforcement agencies.
The session disseminated more information on the Demerit Point System. The System penalizes drivers who break road rules by awarding them demerit points, while more serious offences may lead to driving license suspensions. This is in line with the objective of the Community Relation Program mentioned in a Titah of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam to develop a program which both benefits and educates the public, "Towards an Educated Society". The program also raises public awareness on the importance of road safety, and highlights public measures toward reducing fatalities in the country. The event was supported by the Seri Begawan Sultan Science College and Berakas Secondary School.