Lorry Operators Pay RM100k Monthly For 'Protection Stickers' To Bypass Inspections

Certain lorry operators are reportedly spending up to RM100,000 a month on protection stickers to allow heavy vehicle drivers to avoid fines and inspections at roadblocks, according to a report by Utusan Malaysia.
The stickers, identified with unique codes and designs, are attached to vehicles to alert corrupt enforcement officers to their "protection" status, allowing large vehicles, particularly trailers and tipper lorries, to avoid inspections even while committing violations such as overloading.

The cost varies according to the weight of the vehicle and the operating zones; some operators purchase more than one sticker to guarantee coverage in various locations. According to The Star, a lorry driver representative  who asked to remain anonymous stated that the syndicate, which allegedly involved insiders in law enforcement, could make up to RM10,000 per operator each month.


"These stickers often feature designs like an eagle symbol with specific codes. When syndicate members or enforcement officers spot the sticker, they recognise that the lorry has 'paid' and allow it to pass without inspection. The primary users of these stickers are trailers and tipper lorries.

"This has been happening for years. As long as the sticker is displayed, the lorry can pass through roadblocks, regardless of its offence," he said. According to him, whenever vehicles deviate from their regular routes, operators frequently engage in separate negotiations with syndicates in other zones. Operators typically need to add more money for protection in this situation. "If a driver typically operates in Klang but unexpectedly enters Petaling Jaya, they might still be stopped despite having the sticker. This is because the sticker they purchased is only recognised by the Klang syndicate.

"In such situations, the operator must negotiate separately with the Petaling Jaya syndicate to obtain similar privileges for that area," he explained.