Road safety groups are slamming the Highway Bureau for its plan to introduce
a mandatory "pointing and calling" requirement in driving tests.

The groups are describing the decision as being "stupid" as it could
compromise traffic safety.

The criticism comes after the Highway Bureau last week announced that driving
test for small passenger cars will include a new "pointing and calling"
requirement from June 2.

Learner drivers who fail to perform the newly required action during the test
will not pass.

"Pointing and calling" a safety confirmation method that originated in Japan.

Currently only drivers of certain bus lines are required to perform the
checks before turning at intersections.

The "pointing and calling" require drivers to stop, point to the left, front,
and right, and verbally confirm that no pedestrians are present,

Road safety groups says the move will significantly slow down traffic and be
difficult to enforce.