Federal Highway motorcycle lane safety under investigation

The Public Works Department (JKR) is investigating several incidents where motorcyclists fell on the dedicated motorcycle lane of the Federal Highway following viral social media footage. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the department is taking the matter seriously and will take immediate action to improve safety on the route.

Initial findings suggest that while the lane surface was intended to be non-slip, factors such as wet conditions from light rain may have contributed to the accidents. The Minister noted that investigations are ongoing to determine if the cause was the surface material, rider speed, or the volume of users at the time.

Engineering experts have raised concerns regarding the green-colored surface of the lane. Associate Professor Dr. Munzilah Md. Rohani from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia explained that during rain, a layer of water can form between the tires and the painted surface, acting as a lubricant. This phenomenon, similar to hydroplaning, reduces friction and increases the risk of skidding compared to standard anti-skid road surfaces.