STRICT laws are needed to end the “basikal lajak” menace, said Deputy Inspector-General of Police Mazlan Mansor.

He said the use of “basikal lajak”, or modified bicycles, does not only pose a safety risk to road users, but is also a public order issue.

“We need strict laws to address this problem, which adversely affects public order and well-being.

“We are looking at provisions under the law and the best method to curb such activities,” he told reporters in Kuala Lumpur today.

On Monday, Bukit Aman Investigation and Traffic Enforcement Department director Azisman Alias said parents of children involved in mishaps and accidents related to “basikal lajak” could face action under Section 33 of the Children’s Act 2001.

They face a fine not exceeding RM20,000, or a jail term of not more than five years, or both, upon conviction.

Azisman said 116 modified bicycles were seized in 13 operations from January to last month, adding that 26 locations in eight states, namely Penang, Negri Sembilan, Selangor, Pahang, Perak, Johor, Kelantan and Sabah, have been identified as hotspots. – Bernama, November 8, 2019.