From Diesel Subsidies to Speed Limiters: Tougher Lorry Regulations Urged

In the aftermath of the tragic Melaka accident that claimed seven lives, experts are urging stricter safety measures for heavy vehicles. One proposal is mandating periodic vehicle maintenance records as a requirement for diesel subsidies to commercial vehicle operators.

Mohamed Ismail KP Pakir Mohamed of Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) emphasized the importance of vehicle safety, recommending companies adopt practices like Japan’s, where safety officers inspect vehicles before and after operations. “Owners must be accountable and budget for maintenance to ensure roadworthiness,” he said.

To encourage compliance, Mohamed Ismail also proposed tax incentives for companies adhering to safety standards. Current laws already require initial and periodic inspections at Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centres (PUSPAKOM) under the Road Transport Act 1987, however based on the rising number incidents its effectiveness is rather questionable.

According to Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah, over 1.512 million summonses and 7,259 compounds related to overloading have been issued to commercial vehicles between 2022 and 2024.

In addition to that, from 2019 to 2024, a total of 5,559 audits were conducted on 3,088 companies, resulting in 210 operator licences and 67 vehicle permits being suspended, while two operator licences and 32 vehicle permits were revoked.

Furthermore, Dr. Law Teik Hua from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) advocates for the installation of speed limiters and Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) for heavy trucks, pointing out that real-time tyre monitoring might avert collisions.

He also went on to suggest that vehicle maintenance plans be based on miles rather than time intervals.

Recently, Bukit Aman Traffic Director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri had also highlighted that there have been 1,457 fatalities and 1,549 injuries resulting from lorry-related accidents nationwide since 2019.