Taiping: The Perak Road Transport Department (JPJ) has detained 206 foreign drivers for committing 821 traffic offences under the foreign driver operation (PeWA), conducted statewide from January 1 until July 28. The comprehensive operation aims to address traffic violations committed by foreign nationals on Malaysian roads.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohammad Yusoff Abustan, the director of the Perak JPJ, reported that a total of 1,200 notices were issued during the same period. These included Notice P22, Section 64(1), and other related notices. Pakistani nationals accounted for the highest number of detentions among foreign drivers, with 56 individuals detained. This was followed by 49 Rohingya/Myanmar nationals, 43 Indonesians, 37 Bangladeshis, 8 Indians, 7 Nepalese, 2 Thais, and 4 individuals from other nationalities.
In terms of specific offences, driving without a licence topped the list with 412 cases. This was followed by Motor Vehicle Licence (LKM) offences, which accounted for 128 cases, and lack of insurance coverage, with 119 cases. Technical offences were recorded at 105, along with 29 other offences, 17 cases of LKM misuse, and 11 major offences.
Mohammad Yusoff emphasized that strict actions will also be taken against vehicle owners or employers who rent out or hand over vehicles to foreign drivers lacking valid qualifications. Legal action will be pursued against any vehicle owner who rents, sells, or transfers their vehicle to a foreign driver without a valid driving licence. Vehicle owners are advised to exercise caution and verify the background and qualifications of foreign individuals before renting or selling vehicles.
He further stated that enforcement operations will persist as a proactive measure to curb offences involving foreign drivers, particularly on public roads. The operation also seeks to enhance compliance among employers, company owners, and vehicle owners to prevent the arbitrary transfer of vehicles to unqualified individuals. The public is encouraged to report any violations of the law involving foreign nationals.