SHAH ALAM, Nov 2 — The government and vehicle manufacturers are encouraged to collaborate to offer child safety seats (CSS) either free of charge or through rebates at the time of car purchase, to promote their use among parents.
Road safety activist Shahrim Tamrin said such a measure would make CSS a basic necessity for every family rather than merely an option.
“Imagine if the price of a car is RM35,000 and the RM300 cost of a safety seat could be included in the monthly instalments. Young families would not feel burdened,” he said during the recent 'Bicara Semasa' programme produced by Media Selangor.
Shahrim also dismissed financial constraints as an excuse, noting that many second-hand shops (bundle stores) offer CSS for as little as RM20 to RM50.
“Even if it is not brand new, it is still far better and safer than not using one at all,” he said.
Shahrim also advised parents to train their children to feel comfortable sitting in a CSS, even if they cry at first.
“It is better for a child to cry because they have to sit in a safety seat than for parents to cry over the loss of their child’s life,” he said.
Regarding enforcement, the activist believes it should be implemented gradually through warnings and educational measures.
“The notice should serve more as a warning, not a compound. Public awareness should not be built on fear of being fined,” Shahrim said.
He also suggested that operations be conducted in public places like supermarkets or shopping centres to reprimand parents who hold their children on their laps in the front seat.
“Show the real consequences: cases where children suffer fractured skulls or bleeding faces. That is the real ‘fear factor’.
"Do not talk about fines; show the effects that can truly raise public awareness,” Shahrim said.
