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Issue
Written on 5th April 2024

ELECTRIC SCOOTERS ARE BENEFICIAL TO STUDENTS



E-scooters are placed in public areas around the campus for convenient access. (Picture by Chen Ke En)
Main Campus, 5th April- Amidst the recent government policy prohibiting electric scooters on roads, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has shown understanding towards the challenges students face while commuting and has decided to permit students to use electric scooters within the campus premises. This decision aims to provide students with a more convenient mode of transportation while fostering an active and convenient campus environment.
Based on the latest Penang Island City Council guidelines on micro-mobility vehicles, many governments in various regions have initiated restrictions on using electric scooters on roads, sparking some controversies. However, the action taken by USM offers students a reassuring environment.
"While understanding the government's ban on electric scooters due to public safety concerns, we also acknowledge the difficulties and time constraints students face while walking on campus. Following internal discussions, we have determined that if students use electric scooters within the campus premises, we will not be prohibited from doing so. Therefore, to meet students' transportation needs and ensure their safety and convenience, USM has decided to continue allowing electric scooters to operate within the campus boundaries," said the Assistant Safety Officer, Mr Firdaus Bin Haji Husin.

Mr Firdaus is being interviewed. ( Picture by Chen Ke En)
The students have warmly welcomed and supported this decision. Many students have expressed that electric scooters provide a fast and timesaving means of transportation, especially on the USM campus, making their daily lives more convenient.
A year 2 student, Lai Sze Yu stated that walking around campus is a burden, especially when she cannot catch the school bus. Now, with electric scooters, she can get to the classroom more quickly, especially when she needs to reach distant buildings within a short timeframe. Additionally, Lai mentioned that electric scooters are a great mode of transportation in this scorching weather, allowing her to return to the dormitory more quickly."
In addition to being convenient and efficient, using electric scooters also helps reduce traffic congestion on campus and mitigates the environmental impact of car emissions. Therefore, the USM initiative makes students' lives more convenient and reflects the institution's commitment to environmental protection and student well-being.
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Text: Chen Ke En / Photo : Chen Ke En
Created on 5th April 2024

