KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Transport (MOT) and the Ministry of Works (KKR) are in the final stages of developing a High Speed Weigh-In-Motion (HS-WiM) system to address road accidents caused by overloaded vehicles. Transport Minister Anthony Loke highlighted that the installation of this system, particularly at hotspot areas for overloaded vehicles and accident-prone black spots, aims to ensure more integrated and modern enforcement.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke emphasized the importance of this initiative in the context of frequent accidents on the Karak Highway, specifically involving heavy commercial vehicles. He noted that the ministry continues to conduct integrated operations and enforce regulations to reduce such incidents. Overloading, especially by logistics lorries carrying excessive loads, remains a persistent issue that the ministry is keen to monitor continuously.
During a policy stage debate on the 2025 Supply Bill for MOT in the Dewan Rakyat, Loke responded to Young Syefura Othma
n’s (PH-Bentong) inquiry regarding the ministry’s strategies to decrease accident frequency on the Karak Highway, which has resulted in loss of life. Loke suggested that promoting the use of railways for cargo transportation, particularly from the Klang Valley to the East Coast, could alleviate traffic congestion in the long term. The completion of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project is expected to support a policy shift towards reducing reliance on heavy trucks.
In addressing a question from Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden (PN-Alor Setar) about enhancing connectivity between railway stations and other public transport in rural areas, Loke mentioned that the Railway Assets Corporation (RAC) is prioritizing station upgrades. He acknowledged the need for cooperation from state governments and local authorities to improve integration, as station premises are under MOT jurisdiction, but surrounding areas are not. Loke stressed the necessity of proactive engagement with the Ministry of Housing and Local Governmen
t (KPKT) to explore potential upgrades, highlighting ongoing efforts in the Klang Valley and the need for similar improvements nationwide, including in cities like Alor Setar.