Kuala lumpur: The government, through the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), is initiating the development of an integrated cross-agency database aimed at enhancing the monitoring and enforcement of heavy vehicle drivers.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah emphasized the importance of identifying drivers' past records early to prevent those with repeated offences from continuing to operate. The system will be developed in phases, focusing on integration with existing databases from the Road Transport Department (RTD), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK), and other relevant agencies, aligning with the Malaysia Road Safety Plan 2022-2030.
The initiative aims to facilitate data sharing using advanced digital technology, allowing authorities to verify the background of both current drivers and new recruits, thereby enabling more targeted enforcement and intervention. The government also plans to hold operators accountable by ensuring they actively monitor the discipline, records, and qualifications of their drivers to prevent repeated incidents.
Operators failing to comply with these requirements may face enforcement actions, including suspension or revocation of their licences. Existing enforcement measures include provisions under the Road Transport Act 1987, which subject drivers to licence suspension or revocation, fines, prosecution, and a demerit points system for repeated or serious offences. Between 2023 and 2025, 715 Goods Driving Licences (GDL) and 293 Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licences were suspended.
The government is also enforcing the Speed Limitation Device (SLD) requirement for commercial vehicles to mitigate dangerous driving risks. As of January 14, 2026, approximately 12% of commercial vehicles have installed SLD, with ongoing enforcement by JPJ. Additionally, retraining and competency development for drivers are being emphasized as long-term preventive measures, including a proposal for mandatory rehabilitation courses for suspended vocational licence holders.
Further, the Malaysia Bus Operator Safety Rating (MBOSR) is being implemented by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) to assess operators' safety performance. This rating system allows for systematic analysis of operators' past safety records, providing input for APAD in licensing, permit renewals, and administrative actions.