Kota bharu: The Ministry of Transport will review traffic summons discounts offered to foreign vehicles, including those from Thailand, to ensure that the enforcement approach implemented remains effective. Minister Anthony Loke stated that the discounts, which cover offences such as not having an International Circulation Permit (ICP), are granted at the discretion of the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to encourage the prompt settlement of summonses.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the entry of foreign vehicles is common in states along the Malaysia-Thailand border. Currently, foreign vehicle drivers who commit offences and settle their summonses within the stipulated timeframe are eligible for discounts of up to 50 per cent. Loke noted, however, that if this approach does not yield the expected results, the ministry will revisit the mechanism specifically for foreign vehicles. Further discussions with JPJ will be conducted to assess potential improvements.
The report also highlighted that more than 1,000 Thai vans operate along the borders of four states, with each earning up to RM30,000 a month by transporting passengers from southern Thailand to destinations such as the Klang Valley and Johor. These vans charge between RM70 and RM150 per passenger, predominantly serving restaurant workers.
In a separate announcement, Loke emphasized that stern action will be taken against bus operators, including tour bus companies, that fail to install speed limitation devices (SLD) as mandated. Full enforcement began after the first-phase ended on December 31 last year. The SLD restricts a bus's maximum speed to 90 kilometres per hour to prevent excessive speeding and reduce the risk of fatal accidents involving heavy vehicles.
The government is also enhancing the monitoring of bus drivers through a driver database developed by the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD). This system allows operators to verify a driver's traffic offence records and licence status before employment, thereby improving the safety of public transport operations.
Regarding the installation of telematics systems to monitor bus drivers' attitudes and behaviour, Loke stated that it is a voluntary measure currently being implemented before becoming mandatory. The telematics system uses global positioning system technology and closed-circuit television cameras, including dashboard recordings, to monitor drivers' conditions, such as fatigue or lack of focus, while on duty. This initiative aims to ensure continuous monitoring of bus drivers to enhance safety and reduce accident risks involving express buses.