Couple’s e-scooter ride on public roads sparks outrage on social media

Netizens express anger, questioning authorities' response, calling for stricter enforcement of safety regulations

The video shows the couple swaying left and right before a highway intersection, forcing the driver behind them to slow down to avoid a collision. – Screengrab pic, June 10, 2024

KUALA LUMPUR – A viral video of a couple riding an electric scooter on public roads has stirred heated reactions from netizens, who were quick to criticise their actions for endangering both themselves and other motorists.

A social media user, @update11111, shared the video on X, captioning it, “They’re doing whatever they want… this country has laws, you know.”

The video shows the couple swaying left and right before a highway intersection, forcing the driver behind them to slow down to avoid an accident.

Angry drivers voiced their concerns, expressing disappointment over the lack of enforcement measures. This frustration not only highlighted the safety risks but also raised questions about road orderliness.

One user, @raveendran48531, commented, “Where is the enforcement? If a local had done this, they would have been arrested already.”

Another user, @AnakPakChot, noted the video’s location near the Road Transport Department’s Wangsa Maju building, expressing surprise that authorities did not notice.

X user @_ohhintan expressed displeasure with the couple, citing a prior encounter she had with other electric scooter riders.

“The other day, these stupid people were riding in the middle of the road at a red light, and they hit my car. They just carried on without care; when I rolled down the window to confront them, they stared at me,” she said.

However, user @wanachamatcha expressed concern for the couple’s safety

“This is anxious to see… what if they trip and roll? This is a highway, not a village road,” she said.

Riding an electric scooter on public main roads is illegal under the Road Traffic (Prohibition of Use of Certain Micromobility Vehicles) Rules 2021, as stated by the Road Transport Department.

Scoop has reached out to the Road Transport Department and the Transport Ministry for comment. – June 10, 2024