Author: Farihin Azlan

As Malaysians prepare to balik kampung for Hari Raya Aidilfitri, highways and roads nationwide are expected to see a significant surge in traffic. The festive موسم coinciding with school holidays means longer travel hours, increased congestion, and more families journeying together. While the spirit of Raya centres on reunion and celebration, it is also one of the most high-risk periods on the road. Even a brief lapse in attention, fatigue, or a moment of speeding can lead to life-altering consequences within seconds.

According to data from Royal Malaysia Police Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department, over 15,000 road accidents and 123 fatalities were recorded خلال the 2025 festive travel period, reflecting a worrying rise compared to the previous year. For medical professionals, this seasonal spike translates into a surge of trauma cases, ranging from road traffic collisions involving motorists and motorcyclists to घरेलू and recreational injuries during the holidays.

At Sunway Medical Centre, emergency teams operate under intense pressure during this period. Consultant Emergency Physician Dr Mohd Khalis bin Abdul Rahim explains that trauma care begins with the critical ABCDE approach—airway, breathing, circulation, disability, and exposure—to quickly identify and treat life-threatening conditions. This process involves a coordinated effort from multidisciplinary teams including surgeons, radiologists, anaesthetists, and critical care specialists, all working in sync to stabilise patients before further intervention.

Once stabilised, orthopaedic specialists like Dr Mohamad Hafiz bin Mohmad Hassim take over to assess injuries and determine the best course of treatment. Trauma cases often include fractures, joint injuries, and complex conditions requiring urgent surgery. However, not all injuries demand immediate العمليات—careful judgment is essential in deciding when surgical intervention is necessary and when conservative management is more appropriate. Importantly, doctors caution that some injuries may not be immediately visible, making early medical evaluation crucial even when symptoms appear mild.

Modern imaging technology has revolutionised trauma care, enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis. From X-rays to CT scans and MRI, doctors can now visualise injuries in detail within minutes. Advanced 3D imaging also allows surgeons to plan procedures more precisely, reducing complications and improving outcomes. In some cases, interventional radiology can control internal bleeding without the need for open surgery, significantly increasing survival chances.

However, recovery does not end after surgery. Rehabilitation and physiotherapy play an equally vital role in ensuring patients regain mobility and strength. Early movement, sometimes within days after surgery, helps prevent stiffness and long-term disability. Skipping rehabilitation can lead to prolonged recovery or permanent loss of function, highlighting the importance of consistent follow-up care.

For bystanders, immediate response can make a life-saving difference. Ensuring personal safety comes first, followed by calling emergency services at 999. Applying firm pressure to bleeding wounds, keeping the injured person calm, and performing CPR if trained are crucial steps that can stabilise victims before professional help arrives.

Ultimately, prevention remains the most effective approach. Simple اقدامات such as wearing seatbelts, using proper helmets, ensuring child safety seats, and maintaining vehicles can significantly reduce the risk of severe injuries. Road users, especially motorcyclists and cyclists, are urged to avoid speeding and practise defensive driving at all times.

As festive journeys bring loved ones together, safety must remain a top priority. With greater awareness, responsible behaviour, and timely emergency care, tragedies can be prevented—ensuring that every journey this Raya ends safely at home.