Penang: The Penang Road Transport Department (JPJ) has issued 1,328 summonses to foreign drivers for various offences and impounded 178 vehicles under Op Khas Pemandu Warga Asing (PeWA) conducted since January 1.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State JPJ director Zulkifly Ismail reported that a total of 19,239 vehicles driven by foreigners were inspected, with enforcement action taken against 638 vehicles. The operation targets offences involving foreign drivers operating motor vehicles without a valid driving licence and also focuses on vehicle owners who allow unlicensed individuals to drive their vehicles.

Zulkifly highlighted that motorcycles accounted for the highest number of enforcement actions, with 478 motorcycles being targeted, 154 of which were impounded. Cars followed, with 154 enforcement actions and 18 vehicles impounded. The operation also uncovered instances of foreign nationals from China and Myanmar, including professionals, driving luxury vehicles.

Investigations revealed that some foreigners purchased motorcycles using the names of local individuals, and some local vehicle owners rented out their vehicles to foreigners. The most common offence detected was foreign drivers not possessing a valid driving licence. Enforcement actions are taken against the drivers, and vehicle owners are held liable for allowing them to drive without a valid licence.

Zulkifly stated that Penang JPJ would continue to intensify Op Khas PeWA in collaboration with relevant enforcement agencies to strengthen compliance with road traffic laws and ensure the safety of all road users.