Loke: Study Needed Before Limiting Motorcycles on Highways

Transport Minister Anthony Loke says proposals to restrict motorcycle access on Malaysian highways will be carefully assessed for safety, feasibility and real-world impact, amid rising rider fatalities and peak-hour congestion concerns.

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The government must carefully study any proposal to restrict motorcycles from Malaysian highways instead of rushing into quick fixes.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the government will first assess the practicality and real-world effectiveness of proposals to limit motorcycle access during certain hours or traffic conditions.

Speaking after the Transport Ministry’s 2026 New Year Address, Loke said multiple suggestions, including those from highway concessionaires like PLUS Malaysia Berhad, are currently under consideration.

However, he cautioned against rushing into decisions without understanding the broader consequences.

Safety vs practicality

The discussion comes amid growing concern over rising motorcyclist fatalities nationwide. Over the past three years, road deaths involving riders have climbed steadily, prompting calls for tougher safety measures, especially on high-speed highways where motorcycles share lanes with heavier vehicles.

Some of the ideas floated include restricting motorcycles during peak hours or limiting access when traffic volumes are high, in an effort to reduce conflict between bikes and larger vehicles.

There are also hopes that tighter controls could discourage illegal racing activities on highways.

Loke stressed that the government must balance safety improvements with the everyday needs of road users.

Highways remain a critical route for many riders commuting to work, transporting goods, or travelling long distances. Blanket restrictions, he said, could unintentionally disrupt those who rely on highways as their main mode of travel.

Multi-agency decision

The issue is not solely within the Transport Ministry’s authority. Any policy change would require coordination with the Malaysian Highway Authority, the Works Ministry and highway concessionaires.

Meanwhile, police data continues to show that speeding, reckless riding and traffic violations remain the primary contributors to motorcycle-related fatalities, suggesting enforcement and rider behaviour may be just as important as infrastructure rules.

For now, the government’s stance appears cautious: study first, decide later.

Regardless of the outcome, the government aims to improve road safety without limiting the daily mobility of millions of Malaysians who depend on two wheels.