Kota bharu: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is reinforcing its collaboration with public institutions of higher learning (IPTA) through the MyLesen B2 Programme, aimed at aiding students from B40 families in obtaining valid motorcycle licences.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JPJ Deputy Director-General (Planning and Operations) Datuk Jazmanie Shafawi stated that the initiative, which commenced in February, seeks to alleviate the financial challenges faced by B40 students and enhance road safety awareness among the youth.

In Kelantan, a total of 1,000 students from seven IPTAs have already benefited from the free Class B2 motorcycle licences under the programme’s first phase. The programme’s second phase, running from August to November, offers 650 slots specifically for public university students in Kelantan, out of a total of 10,000 slots available nationwide, as announced by the Minister of Transport on July 10. The first phase involved institutions such as Politeknik Kota Bharu, Politeknik Jeli, GiatMARA Kelantan, Jeli Community College, Kok Lanas Community College, Pasir Mas Community College, and Pasir Mas Advanced Skills College, all coordinating with 15 driving institutes across the state. Nationwide, the programme has allocated 15,000 slots for its initial phase.

In another development, Jazmanie highlighted that JPJ has taken action in 1,415 cases involving non-compliance with seat belt regulations by drivers and passengers of express and tour buses through the Ops Tali Pinggang initiative since July. Out of these, 244 cases were reported in Kelantan. Jazmanie emphasized that enforcement efforts will persist to ensure adherence to vehicle safety measures, aiming to reduce the occurrence of fatal accidents.