13 Nov
Training for the first cadre of driving instructors initiated by the Ministry of Communications has begun in earnest, with eight driving schools on course to be the first to receive this new training in Brunei Darussalam.
The training that began on Monday is a milestone that is expected to enhance the quality of instruction for Brunei’s future drivers and reduce the number of accidents and fatalities taking place on the road.
“It is a landmark for safety in regards to driving in Brunei, it is quite significant since it’s never been done (here) before,” said Mohd Roger Ainsworth, general manager at Megamas. The Land Transport Department (LTD) at the Ministry of Communications signed an agreement with Megamas last month, which sees the company providing a five-day course to driving instructors in the country.
Mohd Roger said the course has been received favourably by both the officials from the government and the instructors.
“Hopefully, Bruneians will go to better equipped (driving) schools, as the course is a competency-based course with a passing mark of 80 per cent for the course,” said the general manager. “New driving instructors will also take the course and it will benefit Brunei in the future.”
Participants had already begun to inform staff at Megamas yesterday that they were impressed with the training provided and felt that it was worthwhile in undertaking the course, which is expected to conclude in April. Meanwhile, observers from the ministry will also sit in during the course on each of the different days that it is being conducted.
“We hope that it has an impact on the students,” said Mohd Roger.
During the signing of the services agreement between LTD last month and Megamas, Communications Permanent Secretary Dato Paduka Hj Alaihuddin Pehin Orang Kaya Digadong Seri Lela Dato Seri Utama Hj Taha outlined that the initiative is part of an extensive process undertaken by the ministry to improve driving standards in the Sultanate.
The permanent secretary emphasised that good driving schools and professionally-trained instructors will help produce good and disciplined drivers.
“It is an excellent initiative on the government’s part and will provide further impetus on improving health and safety in Brunei Darussalam,” Mohd Roger said, adding, “We are extremely grateful for the Ministry in showing the way for providing high quality training.”
Major road safety factors are among the important safety features included in the course, such as: a safe vehicle component, road traffic regulation and signs, basic first aid for drivers, defensive driving techniques, emergency braking speed awareness, system of vehicle control and driver attitude.
With three “on road” assessments, participants began the course with an initial assessment, followed by a coaching session and a final assessment. The course also includes a one-day Train the Trainer to improve the Defensive Driving Instructor’s presentation skills.
Driving instructors also need to demonstrate the necessary knowledge and skills of a qualified defensive driving instructor by undergoing a written assessment.
The Brunei Times
IZAM SAID YA’AKUB
Wednesday, January 12, 2011