The Ministry of Transport will review the traffic summons discount policy for foreign vehicles, including those from Thailand, to ensure enforcement measures remain effective.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the discounts — including for offences such as failing to possess an International Circulation Permit (ICP) — are granted at the discretion of the Road Transport Department (JPJ), mainly to encourage offenders to settle their summonses within a specified period.
He explained that foreign vehicle entries are common in states along the Malaysia–Thailand border. Currently, foreign drivers who commit traffic offences and pay their summonses within the stipulated timeframe are eligible for discounts of up to 50 per cent.
“However, if this approach is found to be ineffective, the ministry will review the mechanism specifically for foreign vehicles,” he said. “We will hold further discussions with JPJ to assess suitable improvements.”
Loke was speaking to reporters after launching the BAS.My Kota Bharu stage bus service transformation programme.
His remarks came after reports revealed that more than 1,000 Thai vans are operating across border areas in four states. Each vehicle is reportedly able to earn up to RM30,000 per month by transporting passengers from southern Thailand to destinations such as the Klang Valley and Johor. Fares range between RM70 and RM150 per passenger, with many of the passengers being restaurant workers.
Meanwhile, Loke said firm action will be taken against bus operators, including tour bus companies, that fail to install speed limitation devices (SLD), in line with nationwide enforcement of the regulation.
He said full enforcement began after the end of the first phase on Dec 31 last year, and non-compliant operators will face appropriate penalties.
“The SLD limits a bus’s maximum speed to 90 kilometres per hour, preventing drivers from exceeding the speed limit,” he said. “This is a crucial measure to curb dangerous driving and reduce the risk of fatal accidents involving heavy vehicles.”
Loke added that the government is strengthening oversight of bus drivers through the development of a driver database by the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD).
The system allows operators to verify a driver’s traffic offence history and licence status before employment, helping to improve public transport safety.
On the use of telematics systems to monitor driver behaviour, Loke said the measure has proven effective in preventing accidents involving express buses. While installation is currently voluntary, it will be made mandatory in the near future.
“The telematics system uses GPS technology and CCTV cameras, including dashboard recordings, to monitor drivers’ conditions while on duty, such as fatigue or lack of focus,” he said. “Continuous monitoring is essential to enhance operational safety and reduce accident risks.”
