MIRI: After nearly a decade-long absence, the Miri Traffic Games, now rebranded as the Sarawak Traffic Games, is making a comeback.

Organised by the Ministry of Transport Sarawak the event aims to promote road safety awareness among Sarawak’s youth.

The last Traffic Games event was held in 2015, and this year’s revival will start in Miri on Nov 23 and thereafter extend to other divisions across Sarawak, including Kuching, Sri Aman, Sibu, Sarikei, and Bintulu.

According to Deputy Minister of Transport (Aviation and Roads), Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil , each division is expected to host the games in designated “traffic gardens,” purpose-built areas that simulate real-world traffic environments for educational purposes.

Dr. Jerip highlighted new digital improvements to the games, including an online quiz accessed via QR codes.

“Participants just need to bring their phones or tablets, scan the QR code, and take the quiz online. Everything is digital now, making it easier and more engaging,” he said during a press conference on Wednesday.

“We want the event to be a family-friendly outing, with activities held over the weekend. Families can enjoy the traffic gardens together, and we will provide food and the necessary facilities for a pleasant experience,” he added.

The Miri event is set to involve 10 local schools, both primary and secondary, including SMK Chung Hua Miri, SMK St. Joseph, and SK Jalan Bintang.

With a RM70,000 budget allocated for the Miri chapter alone, the Ministry is committed to creating a meaningful and impactful experience for the young participants.

The games will continue across different divisions until November 2025, giving youth from all parts of Sarawak the opportunity to participate.

The Sarawak Traffic Games is part of the ministry’s broader mission to reduce road traffic accidents by instilling road safety habits from a young age.

“Malaysia has one of the highest rates of road traffic accidents, so it’s crucial that we work to reduce this by educating our children early,” Dr. Jerip said.

“Look at Sweden, where road fatalities are low due to early road safety education,” he added.

Dr. Jerip also called on the corporate sector to collaborate with the ministry to ensure the programme’s success.