SPIM – No SPM Needed For Trainers, EV Training May Be Included

Transport Minister, YB Anthony Loke announced recently that The Road Transport Department (JPJ) will be launching a special programme that exempts applicants without the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) from taking the Driving School Instructors’ Certificate (SPIM) course.

According to him, his initiative is designed to tackle the shortage of instructors at driving institutes (IM) by allowing individuals without SPM qualifications to become certified instructors.

However, he also added that this exemption period will be a limited time offer running from July 1 to December 31 and interested candidates will need to complete a two-week course at JPJ Academy in Melaka.

As this is a pilot project, the result of which would be evaluated by The Ministry of Transport (MOT) on the programme’s effectiveness before making any future policy changes.

Loke also noted that approximately 700,000 prospective drivers register each year at one of the 255 IMs across the country, which employ around 15,000 teaching staff. Each IM typically handles about 2,500 students annually.

The programme was developed in response to feedback that many experienced and capable drivers, including retired armed forces and police officers, have the potential to be excellent instructors but lack SPM qualifications. This initiative provides them with the opportunity to join the profession.

During the announcement, Loke also emphasised the need to integrate electric vehicle (EV) training into the current IM curriculum, given the growing popularity of EVs among consumers. Proper training on operating these vehicles is becoming increasingly important.

At CariCarz, we firmly believe that driving schools should offer specialised training for electric vehicles (EVs). Although EVs serve the same fundamental purpose as traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, they drive and handle quite differently.

The instant torque delivery from electric motors and the substantial weight of the battery packs result in a unique driving experience. Additionally other aspects on EVs IMs should cover could include, Regenerative Braking, Charging and Range Management plus Maintenance and Safety. Given these differences, it’s crucial for driving schools to provide EV-specific training to ensure drivers are fully prepared to handle these vehicles safely and efficiently.

Loke also mentioned several new policies aimed at digitising the IM industry, including the e-testing system announced in March, which is now in the implementation phase. Moreover, the government will allow qualified IMs to establish computerised legal test centres to improve public service delivery.