To address accidents involving heavy vehicles, the Ministry of Transport has announced that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) is considering requiring heavy vehicle drivers (Class E) whose licenses have been revoked for violations to undergo refresher courses before their licenses can be reinstated.
In a written parliamentary reply, the ministry revealed that from 2020 to June 2025, there were a total of 1,604 fatal accidents involving lorries and buses. Of these, 84% involved lorries and 16% involved buses. These cases accounted for roughly 5.13% of all fatal road accidents (31,277) recorded during the same period.
“To tackle the issue of accidents involving heavy vehicles, the ministry has implemented strict measures, including special inspections and safety audits (JISA) on commercial vehicles,” said Transport Minister Anthony Loke in response to a question from MP Zahari.
Zahari had asked for details on the number of accidents involving heavy vehicles such as lorries and buses since 2022 and the preventive measures taken by the ministry.
Anthony Loke noted that between June 23 and July 9, 2025, JPJ inspected 153 bus companies and 206 lorry operators. Companies that failed inspections will face action from the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), including suspension or revocation of their operating licenses.
The ministry also plans to implement a phased mandatory installation of speed-limiting devices (SLD) on commercial vehicles starting October 1, 2025. “SLDs can restrict the maximum speed of vehicles, preventing overspeeding and reducing accident risks,” he said.
Additionally, from July 1, 2025, all long-distance express buses and tour buses manufactured after January 1, 2020, must ensure that passengers wear seat belts. JPJ will immediately revoke the professional licenses of commercial or public transport drivers involved in serious accidents. If found guilty, their licenses will be formally canceled under Section 56(4)(b) of the 1987 Road Transport Act.
The ministry also plans to improve inspection standards at PUSPAKOM, including brake performance tests, tire and vehicle body inspections, and stricter checks on the type of cargo carried by tipper lorries.
