SEREMBAN: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has been given the full mandate to address the issue of overloaded heavy vehicles, which have been identified as a significant cause of road accidents. Transport Minister Anthony Loke has instructed the JPJ to take firm action against these vehicles, including deploying enforcement officers to quarry areas to ensure compliance.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke emphasized the need for stern action during a discussion with state Opposition leader, Mohamad Hanapiah Abu Baker (PN-Labu), at the Negeri Sembilan legislative assembly. He expressed concerns over the tactics used by lorry drivers to evade enforcement, including deploying lookouts and threatening officers. Loke stated, “I have given the message to the JPJ enforcement director to take stern and suitable action. Let’s see whether they (lorry drivers) are brave or won’t come out, what time they come out, we will place enforcement officers there.”

Furthermore, Loke, who is also the Chennah assemblyman, s
hared that the ministry is considering amending the Road Transport Act to bolster enforcement measures, particularly against overloaded lorries. He highlighted that accidents involving such vehicles are becoming increasingly common, and large-scale enforcement operations will continue to be implemented.

He also mentioned the potential consequences for serious cases, such as suspending operations and revoking licenses. This could be particularly impactful for cases involving foreign drivers, as revoking licenses could lead to substantial losses for the companies involved.