DLsea wrote: ↑Wed Aug 30, 2023 11:31 pm From observations and experiences during my limited time in Cambodia and mainly in Siem Reap, I would suggest that the proposed license system would not contribute much (if anything at all) to the number of fatal road accidents.

The Ministry of Interior Spokesperson Unit has clarified that minister Sar Sokha’s suggestion that driving licences be required for motorcycles with engines over 60cc was merely one of several ideas the ministry plans to look into, as it explores ways to bring down the road toll.

The clarification followed widespread criticism on several social media. Critics said the time and expense required to obtain a licence would be challenging for many members of the public, as the economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic were still being felt by many.

Sokha floated the idea while addressing the August 28 office taking ceremony of the new National Police chief. At the time, he mused that the move could reduce accident rates.

In an August 29 press release, the spokesperson unit explained that some members of the public appeared to misunderstand his intent. Although some adopted a negative view, it noted that the concept had also attracted praise.

“He [Sokha] simply recommended that we study our past experiences and the results we obtained from the implementation of several road traffic laws. We will conduct this study in the future,” it said.

“After the study is completed, we will be able to make a decision. If we do make a decision, we will have to bring the matter up with the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, as they are responsible for issuing driving licences,” it added.