Since 1995, we have implemented pilot
bicycle helmet programmes throughout Peninsular Malaysia.
Schools where a large proportion of children ride the
bicycle were selected.
The cooperation of health, education,
transport, police and other sectors from Federal to district
levels were obtained. Briefly, students were either given
helmets free of charge or for a very nominal charge.
They were instructed to wear the
bicycle helmets at all time when riding the bicycle, even to
places other than the school. They were given a brief
training session (and rider training where feasible).
Helmet wearing rates were assessed by
students and / or teachers randomly and unannounced at
school entry and exit points at monthly intervals. These
assessment forms were sent to Universiti Malaya for record
keeping.
Students were also instructed to notify
the school authorities if they were involved in a road crash
as a bicyclist.
About 4,000 students, 200 teachers and
70 schools have been involved in these programs. In 2005,
600 students and 300 students were involved in programs in
Terengganu and Cameron Highlands respectively.
Compliance to bicycle helmet use varied
from 20% to 98% and depended on the support of the teachers,
community and agencies involved. One child in Kota Baru
was involved in a crash but escaped unhurt because he was
wearing the bicycle helmet.
Conclusion and
Recommendation
Bicycle helmet programs
are important to prevent head injuries to bicyclists in the
event of involvement in a crash. These programs should be
expanded within states and to all states.
