Traffic Safety Culture is Key to Collective Wellbeing, Says National Police

The Head of the Traffic Corps of the Indonesian National Police, Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, has asserted that traffic safety must become a culture, not just a matter of obeying rules. This vision is being realised through appeals, campaigns, and cross-sector collaboration to create roads as safe living spaces. “Every decision to comply with safety regulations is a form of respect for the right to life of fellow road users,” Agus said. He stressed that all police activities, particularly in traffic, aim to improve the safety and order of road users. Police officers ensure road users are orderly so that the number of violations, including fatalities, decreases. The Traffic Corps continues to optimise the use of technology through Electronic Traffic Law Enforcement. The enforcement scheme prioritises an electronic approach over conventional ticketing, in line with the transformation towards more modern and transparent service and law enforcement. Agus reminded the public that safety must always be placed above economic considerations. “No economic gain is more valuable than human safety,” he said. He noted that the number of fatalities from traffic accidents has shown a decline, describing this success as a positive indicator that must be continuously strengthened through the collaboration of all parties in building a culture of traffic safety. Through collaboration, an event called Scene & Sound Vol. 1 was held to invite the younger generation to explore culture and maintain shared living spaces on the road via a city walking tour and discussion at Balai Budaja. During the tour in the Menteng area, participants observed traffic violations and improper use of public spaces, such as vendors and parking on pavements, motorists driving against the flow, and pavements that are not disability-friendly. A National Traffic Management Centre officer reminded all road users to be careful and drive safely. “Everyone on the road has equal rights. Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists all have the same rights, so do not encroach on others’ lanes,” the officer said, urging the public to be more caring and aware of road safety and to fulfil all necessary obligations.