The Malaysian government has ordered immediate safety enhancements on the East Coast Expressway Phase 2 (LPT2) following a recent collision involving a vehicle and an elephant. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi confirmed that the ministry is coordinating with the Malaysian Highway Authority and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks to prevent further wildlife-related incidents. The move comes after public concern grew regarding the safety of motorists traveling through areas known for wildlife crossings.
LPT2, which stretches across Terengganu, passes through several forest reserves that serve as natural habitats for elephants and other animals. The expressway has experienced multiple wildlife-related accidents since its opening, highlighting the difficulty of balancing infrastructure development with environmental conservation. Authorities are now reviewing existing fencing and warning signage to ensure they are effective in deterring animals from entering the highway.
Key measures under consideration include the installation of more robust physical barriers and improved lighting in high-risk zones. Officials are also looking into the deployment of specialized sensors that could alert drivers to the presence of large animals near the road. These upgrades aim to protect both the traveling public and the local wildlife population, which is increasingly fragmented by human activity.
While these infrastructure improvements are necessary, they require significant coordination between state and federal agencies. The Ministry of Works is currently assessing the costs and technical requirements for these upgrades. Motorists are advised to remain vigilant, particularly when driving at night or during periods of low visibility, as the current measures are being updated to meet modern safety standards.
Looking ahead, the government plans to conduct a comprehensive audit of all major highways that traverse wildlife corridors. The goal is to establish a long-term strategy that minimizes human-wildlife conflict while maintaining efficient transportation networks. For now, the focus remains on immediate interventions on the LPT2 to restore public confidence and ensure road safety.