Kota Bharu:More than 1,000 private vans in Kelantan are suspected of operating illegally by providing transport services for schoolchildren without adhering to the necessary public transport regulations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kelantan Road Transport Department (RTD) director Mohd Misuari Abdullah revealed that approximately 100 of these vans have been detected operating in Kota Bharu alone, with many of them being over 20 years old. He emphasized the seriousness of this issue, noting that the use of private vehicles for commercial school transport must comply with established licensing, permit requirements, and specific technical and safety standards.

Following public complaints, the Kelantan RTD conducted an operation on November 5 targeting Public Transport Service Vehicles (KPPA) in Kota Bharu. During this operation, nine private vans were seized for being used as school transport without meeting the necessary regulations. The department issued 20 'P22' summons notices for 18 instances of Motor Vehicle License (LKM) misuse and two cases of expired LKM. Additionally, nine seizure notices were issued under Section 64(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

Mohd Misuari reported that a total of 29 enforcement actions were recorded during the operation. He urged van owners and drivers to prioritize student safety by ensuring their vehicles are in good condition and possess all valid documentation and licenses. He highlighted that the enforcement actions are not solely punitive but are intended as preventive measures to protect the lives of passengers, especially school students.