Port Klang: The Transport Ministry will begin using port infrastructure as an additional enforcement measure against overloaded heavy vehicles, starting July 1. Minister Anthony Loke announced this initiative, highlighting that the current method, which involves Road Transport Department (JPJ) personnel stopping vehicles and escorting them to weigh stations, limits the number of inspections that can be carried out.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the enhanced enforcement will initially be implemented at all federal ports in Peninsular Malaysia as a step to improve road safety. Minister Loke revealed that during the National Logistics Task Force (NLTF) meeting on November 25, 2024, he informed industry players to prepare for stricter measures concerning overloading to protect road users.
Speaking at a press conference after launching the Car Carrier Truck Driver Training Programme for Electric Vehicle (EV) Handling in Port Klang, Loke explained the mechanics of the new system. For import transactions, the system will automatically reject bookings if the load exceeds the Gross Vehicle Combination Weight, thereby preventing vehicles from entering the port to collect cargo. Similarly, for exports, vehicles will be weighed at port entry points and access will be denied if they are found to be overloaded.
Further details on this policy are expected to be announced by the respective Port Authorities. While acknowledging that these stricter rules may lead to increased costs for service providers, Loke emphasized the necessity of addressing the long-standing road safety issue. He stated that while many consignees or exporters try to maximize loads in a single container, the new regulations will prohibit this practice, which may result in a slight rise in costs but is a necessary step for safety.
Loke pointed out that road accidents involving heavy vehicles occur frequently, with overloading being a major cause. He stressed that this issue must be tackled, even if some parties are unhappy, because safety must come first. Additionally, a separate strategy is being developed for enforcement involving vehicles from other industrial areas such as timber mills.