There have been unifying calls by JPJ, PDRM, other organisations and individuals to implement a policy whereby drivers above the age of 70 have to undergo a medical assessment certifying them fit to drive before being issued a licence.

While the proposed age when these medical assessments must be undertaken vary, the age of 70 is the average age put forward by responsible organisations and individuals as this is when the organs and senses begin to generally deteriorate.

Thorough and rigorous research and tests have not been undertaken on this issue, though there have been random and sporadic views and opinions publicised on the issue by various researchers and authors.

Is this issuance of a driving licence after being examined medically for those above 70 years of age a selective and discriminatory policy which must not be implemented as it is an affront to senior citizens.

It is conceded necessary to implement this policy, not only for the safety of elderly drivers, but also for all other road users, and therefore, it is not discriminatory in nature but a prudent and wise policy for the benefit of all.

But the government, under the auspices of the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Transport, must provide free medical examinations for these elderly Malaysians to alleviate the burden on them as most of them are no longer earning an income.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE