Selfless Malaysian Citizen Becomes a “Traffic Police” Amid Kuala Lumpur's Gridlock

Traffic congestion is a well-known challenge in Malaysia, particularly in busy urban areas like Kuala Lumpur. Regular traffic jams during peak hours often cause frustration among drivers, especially those commuting to work.

While unpredictable weather conditions can sometimes contribute to gridlock, the primary cause often lies in the irresponsible driving behavior of a minority of road users.

The Footage

Recently, a video on the social media platform Reddit showcased a chaotic scene at the intersection of Jalan Tun Razak and Jalan Ampang in Kuala Lumpur. According to Buzzkini, the footage, captured on 15th October at around 5:42 p.m., showed cars trapped at a yellow box junction, resulting in a massive traffic jam.

This situation was not a one-time occurrence; motorists frequently encounter such gridlocks in this area.

According to Malaysian regulations, yellow boxes are meant to keep intersections clear, ensuring traffic can flow smoothly from all directions.

However, drivers in the footage seemed unaware or indifferent to this rule, blocking the intersection and causing a standstill. The issue was worsened by multiple vehicles entering the yellow box despite the traffic light turning yellow.

The Traffic Hero Steps In

Amid the chaos, a Malaysian citizen emerged as an unlikely hero by stepping in to direct traffic. The individual’s efforts to untangle the gridlock were praised by bystanders and netizens alike, with the original poster (OP) calling him “Kuala Lumpur’s Citizen of the Year.”

Social Media Reacts: From Praise to Frustration

The video sparked a lively discussion online, with comments ranging from commendations for the citizen’s efforts to criticisms of the drivers involved.

One user commented, “What a legend,” while another sarcastically implied the rest of the citizens are ignorants.

Others questioned the absence of official traffic enforcement, asking, “Where are the traffic police?”

While another commented that they wouldn’t know how to control the traffic even if they wanted to help.

Another commenter shared their experience of being stuck further back in the same traffic, noting that the situation was made worse because the traffic lights had malfunctioned, flashing yellow in all directions. “Usually, when the lights work, this doesn’t happen,” the user remarked.

Rules and Consequences: What’s at Stake?

According to the Ministry of Transport Malaysia, stopping in a yellow box is illegal under Section 79(2) of the Road Transport Act 1987. The rule aims to keep junctions clear, thus facilitating the flow of vehicles. Violating this regulation can lead to fines of up to RM500 (approximately 152.42 SGD), yet the law is often disregarded, leading to situations like the recent viral incident.

The video has reignited calls for better enforcement of traffic laws in Kuala Lumpur. The lack of respect for road rules not only inconveniences others but also undermines efforts to improve the city’s traffic conditions.

Watch the video here: