A free safety course launched last year for cyclists and e-scooter users is being extended to the end of this year after proving popular.

More than 25,000 people have taken part in the government-subsidised Safe Riding Programme (SRP) since it was launched last February.

The 90-minute theory and practical programme is made up of four modules - pre-journey preparation, infrastructure familiarisation, skills training and the rules and code of conduct. It also includes a training circuit which is designed to simulate scenarios when riding on paths.

Participants have come from the community, schools and corporate organisations, said the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

The extension of the subsidised course was announced by Senior Minister of State for Transport and Health Lam Pin Min at an appreciation event held yesterday to recognise the efforts of the volunteers in the Active Mobility Patrol (AMP).

Both the AMP scheme and the SRP are part of the LTA's efforts to encourage safe and harmonious sharing of paths.

Under the AMP scheme, volunteer teams conduct self-organised patrols in their own community to educate users on the rules and code of conduct under the Active Mobility Act. LTA supports the AMP teams by providing training and equipment for patrol and active mobility-related activities.

The scheme is currently run by more than 1,000 volunteers forming 62 teams islandwide - 25 per cent more volunteers than it had last July.

In his speech, Dr Lam shared how the Braddell Heights AMP team regularly organises outreach programmes to educate fellow residents on safe riding practices. "Over time, the team saw a marked improvement in how cyclists and PMD (personal mobility device) riders share paths safely with other path users in the Braddell Heights constituency."

AMP volunteers play a crucial role in encouraging pedestrians and active mobility users to share paths graciously, said Dr Lam.

"It is often the friendly words of advice and gentle reminders that leave the greatest impression and positively influence a person's behaviour."

Melissa Heng