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The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) has extended the ban on heavy vehicles using highways during peak hours on several highways around the Klang Valley starting February 19.

This involves the North-South Expressway (Plus), the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), the North-South Central Link Expressway (Elite) and the Duta-Ulu Klang Expressway (Duke).

LLM Director-General Datuk Sazali Harun said the implementation of the ban was gazetted by the government on October 21 last year and is one of the initiatives under the Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Congestion (JKMKKJR).

It is aimed at smoothing traffic movement in the Klang Valley area and the Kuala Lumpur city centre.

The heavy vehicles involved in the implementation of this ban are Class 2 motor vehicles, which are vehicles with two axles and six wheels except buses.

Also affected are Class 3 motor vehicles, which are vehicles with three axles or more except buses,” he said in a statement today.

However, he said, the ban is exempted for heavy vehicles involved in cleaning, domestic waste disposal and delivery work, emergency and enforcement services, as well as heavy vehicles with highway maintenance work.

LLM calls on all owners and drivers of heavy vehicles to comply with the heavy vehicle movement ban when it begins to be implemented,” he said.

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) will announce several new vehicle inspection companies tomorrow.

Its Minister, Anthony Loke said, “We hope that when we open up this market, there will be competition in terms of services.

“It will further improve the quality of vehicle inspections so that we can all ensure that the integrity of these vehicle inspections can be improved,” he said during the oral question and answer session at the Dewan Rakyat, today.

He was responding to a supplementary question from Syahredzan Johan (PH-Bangi) on the extent to which the practice of allowing a monopoly to a company can affect the level of vehicle safety.

Further commenting, Anthony admitted that if an industry has a monopoly element, it will affect the quality of services and therefore his party encourages competition.

“The Ministry of Transport has received approval from the Cabinet to end the concession policy or monopoly policy for Puspakom (Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre) last year.

“Currently, Puspakom actually no longer has a concession, what we have given them is just a license to operate.

“What we (want) to do is open up this vehicle inspection market to more other operators,” he said.

Didi Group organised an exclusive event for Aprilia owners over the weekend following the 2025 MotoGP pre-season Winter Test at the Sepang International Circuit. The event included riding the RS457 on the Sepang International Kart Circuit nearby.

Begin Press Release:

Didi Group, the sole importer and distributor of Aprilia in Malaysia has designed an exclusive event to strengthen its brand presence and a lasting impact during the MotoGP 2025 winter test season here in Malaysia. A day full of engagement with the Aprilia community, and introduction to the highly anticipated RS 457.

The event featured a special introduction, featuring Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi, showcasing their ambitions for the upcoming MotoGP 2025 season. Meet & Greet session with the 2025 MotoGP Aprilia Racing Team, giving fans and owners a rare opportunity to interact with top riders Jorge Martin, Marco Bezzecchi, and Lorenzo Savadori. Additionally, the RS 457 Track Activation aim to provide an exhilarating experience for attendees to witness Aprilia’s cutting-edge technology.

Key Highlights of the Event:
  • Exclusive Meet & Greet with Aprilia Racing Team.
  • RS 457 Track Activation – Showcased the latest in Aprilia’s sportbike innovation.
  • Lorenzo Savadori engagement with the Aprilia Community – Showcased his riding technique with the Aprilia RS 457.
  • Showcasing full Aprilia model line-up – RS660, Tuono 660, RS 457, SR GT 200 and SR GT 200 Replica.
  • Attendees included esteemed figures such as Mr. Massimo Rivola, Chief Operating Officer, Aprilia
    Racing, along with Aprilia Malaysia’s key business partners, dealers, and a passionate community
    of owners.

Aprilia continues to set new benchmarks in the sportbike segment with the all-new RS 457, a machine designed to deliver outstanding performance, easy handling, and cutting-edge technology. In a recent interview, Lorenzo shared his insights on the bike and the excitement it has generated among journalists and riders alike.

A Compact Powerhouse

When asked to describe the RS 457 in three words, Lorenzo was clear: Light and powerful, easy to ride, and technologically complete. This new addition to the RS family maintains Aprilia’s signature DNA while offering an exhilarating experience for both beginners and experienced riders.

An Authentic Aprilia Riding Experience

Comparing the RS 457 to the RSV4 and RS 660, Lorenzo affirmed that despite the differences in displacement and power, the RS 457 still embodies the distinct Aprilia essence. The RS 457 has fewer horsepowers than the RSV4, but when you jump on this bike, you feel you are riding an Aprilia, thanks to its typical Aprilia easy handling. This characteristic ensures that every rider experiences the precision and control that defines Aprilia
motorcycles.

Cutting-Edge Features for an Unmatched Ride

When asked about standout features, Lorenzo pointed to the RS 457’s advanced Traction Control system. The presence of the Traction Control feature allows for adjusting the setup to best fit my riding mode, he explained. This adaptability ensures that riders can tailor their experience to their skill level and riding conditions.

Ready for the Track

Beyond street riding, the RS 457 is primed for track use. Lorenzo emphasized the bike’s racing potential, noting that Aprilia Racing offers a special kit that transforms the RS 457 into a racing bike, including a fairing, ECU, air filter, and switch buttons.

The Aprilia RS 457 stands as a testament to innovation, performance, and the brand’s racing
heritage. With its dynamic capabilities and advanced technology, it is poised to become a favorite
among riders seeking both everyday thrills and track-ready excitement.

The Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, announced that a 50 percent toll discount will be implemented throughout the festive season this year (2025).

Last year, the Cabinet had indeed decided to streamline the provision of subsidies to better target those in need of assistance.

So, that decision is final, and there will be no more free tolls this year. As you are aware, during the Chinese New Year last week, there were no free tolls, but a 50 percent discount was given.

Therefore, for Aidilfitri and other celebrations this year, we will implement a 50 percent discount,” he said.

He mentioned that this decision was made during the Cabinet meeting on January 24, involving a financial implication of RM20.08 million borne by the government as compensation to toll concession companies.

This will be implemented at all toll plazas except for the toll plazas at the country’s borders, namely the Sultan Iskandar Building Toll (BSI) on the North-South Expressway (PLUS) and the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza on the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link (LINKEDUA).

In the same development, Nanta Linggi stated that the Cabinet can make decisions and change views as needed.

All tolls are funded by the government and not by the concession companies. I hope the public is aware of this (public money is being spent).

If tolls were free, we would spend over RM100 million a year. With a 50 percent discount, the government will pay approximately RM80 million to the concession companies, and these savings can be used for maintenance work,” he said.

Malaysian motorcycle racer, Saidatul Zakirah Zairin, brought honour to the nation in the Qatar Superstock 600 (QSTK) Championship race, under the Qatar Supersport 300 (QSSP) category. She successfully made it to the podium after finishing in second place in Race 2.

Saidatul Zakirah, also known as Kirah, secured fourth place in Race 1 before climbing to second place in Race 2. Kirah’s outstanding performance has caught the attention of many, especially since she participated in the race as a ‘wildcard’ (non-full-time) rider. She is also the first female rider to step onto the podium in the championship.

At the same time, another Malaysian racer, Johann Zharfan, also made it to the podium in the same category after finishing in third place in Race 1. However, luck was not on his side as a technical issue forced him to end Race 2 in sixth place.

This prestigious championship took place at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar and attracted professional riders from around the world.

A motorcycle workshop owner was detained to assist in the investigation regarding a case of smuggling spare parts and Yamaha RX-Z motorcycles from Thailand in Kampung Padang Luas, Jertih, Terengganu, yesterday.

The Terengganu Police Chief, Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairudin, stated that the 41-year-old man was arrested during a raid on a house that was being used as a workshop to repair the motorcycles.

He mentioned that an inspection of the workshop uncovered 11 Yamaha RXZ motorcycles, motorcycle chassis (four), and suspicious motorcycle engine components (six).

Initial investigations revealed that all the motorcycles and components were brought in from Thailand without any valid documentation.

Further investigations found that the suspect has three past criminal records related to kidnapping, Section 29(1) of the Minor Offences Act 1955, and Section 6(1) of the Dangerous Drugs (Special Preventive Measures) Act 1985.

A urine screening test on the suspect came back negative,” he said.

A motorcyclist died in an accident involving six vehicles on Jalan Hulu Langat-Ampang here yesterday, when a car ran into the opposite lane and rammed into a group of motorcyclists.

Kajang District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Naazron Abdul Yusof, said the incident occurred at around 4:45 PM (February 2, 2025).

“Preliminary investigations revealed that, at the time of the incident, four motorcycles and a car were traveling from Hulu Langat towards Ampang.

“Upon reaching the scene, a Perodua Alza coming from the direction of Ampang entered the opposite lane and collided with all five vehicles.”

“As a result of the collision, a 20-year-old motorcyclist was thrown off and fell to the side of the road.”

According to him, the victim, a local man, was confirmed dead at the scene, while five other injured motorcyclists and pillion riders were taken to Ampang Hospital for treatment.

He stated that the drivers of both cars involved did not sustain any injuries.

Naazron said the cause of the incident is still under investigation, and the vehicles involved were sent for inspection at the Computerized Vehicle Inspection Center (Puspakom) and the Chemistry Department.

“All the victims involved were aged between 17 and 38 years old, while the 27-year-old Alza driver was arrested, and a remand application will be made today.

“The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act (APJ) 1987, and any information can be relayed to the Investigating Officer, Inspector Narolhisyam Endi, at 0195897115,” he said.

A Thai van has 85 outstanding summonses involving various offences committed over the past three years.

The matter was discovered after a check carried out by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) immediately after the van involved was detained in Perlis through Op Tunggak which was implemented starting January 1.

The Director-General of the Road Transport Department (JPJ), Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli, confirmed the matter, with 16 Thai vans detained in the operation still being seized to date.

Elaborating further, he said the most frequently detected offence involved the misuse of the International Circulation Permit (ICP).

There was a Thai van detained in Perlis and from the check, it was found that there were 85 outstanding summonses committed over the past three years, but the owner had settled all the arrears worth RM25,500.

Apart from the misuse of the ICP, other offences were detected, for example the use of tinted windows. Although it is allowed in their country (Thailand), when entering our country we have to obey the law here.

Aedy Fadly said that ICPs are only issued to private vehicles within 90 days of being in this country, but instead some foreign drivers misuse them by carrying passengers.

He said that the offence cannot be compromised because it clearly violates regulations under the Road Transport Act (APJ) 1987, besides it can have adverse effects on many parties due to insurance coverage.

In addition to carrying passengers whether foreigners or locals, Thai vans that do not have ICPs also transport their national employees who work at various premises, especially restaurants.

We do not want this issue of misuse of ICPs to continue and are worried that if an accident occurs involving these vehicles, there will be no insurance coverage and it may become an issue because it involves the victims, drivers and governments of both countries,” he said.

Commenting on Op Tunggak, he informed that 182 foreign drivers with 163 vehicles were detected to have outstanding summonses throughout the 24 days the operation was carried out.

During that period, he said, 172 foreign vehicles were taken into action involving 619 JPJ (P) 22 notices issued.

Summons collected were RM425,104 involving 332 outstanding summonses that had been resolved,” he said.

The Negeri Sembilan Fire and Rescue Department (JPBM) advises road users to be more vigilant at two crosswind sections on the North-South Expressway (PLUS) which are at risk of causing accidents.

Assistant Director of the Fire Safety Division, Senior Fire Superintendent II Mohamed Faiz Muin Mohamed Rasidi said the two locations in the state start at KM 222 of the Melaka border to Hentian Senawang and KM 267 Ainsdale to Seri Putera.

“Both locations are ‘hotspots’ for accidents that often occur and among the factors are crosswinds and the negligence of road users themselves.

“Therefore, users need to always be careful and vigilant when driving, especially during the festive season when the number of vehicles also increases.”

Meanwhile, Mohamed Faiz Muin said that 150 personnel and 26 vehicles and three Emergency Medical Rescue Service (EMRS) vans are on standby in conjunction with Op Siaga Raya which starts from Jan 28 to Feb 2.

He said one vehicle was also statically parked at the Pedas Toll while the state JBPM Rapid Intervention Motorcycle Unit will conduct regular patrols in the highway area up to Nilai to ensure the situation is under control.

He also advised people who want to return to their villages and leave their homes for a long period of time, especially during the festive season, to always be alert and turn off all electrical switches that are not being used.

“Before leaving home, check for anything that could cause a fire, especially power source switches such as lights, fans and water filters to ensure the house is safe and prevent unwanted incidents from happening,” he said.

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) Pahang has stressed that a viral video showing a violent encounter involving its members with a man was just a demonstration.

JPJ in a media statement today, informed that the scene in the viral video was actually part of a scene that was acted out in a rehearsal yesterday.

The act was for a demonstration in conjunction with the working visit of the Director General of the Road Transport Department of Malaysia, this Monday.

In this regard, JPJ Pahang calls on the public not to spread inaccurate or misleading information as it can cause confusion and anxiety among the community.

The public is advised to be careful and refer to authentic sources before believing and sharing any news or videos that are spread,” he said.

In the meantime, JPJ Pahang will continue to be committed to ensuring that every enforcement officer is well trained and prepared to handle any situation with high professionalism and integrity.

If there are any further questions or information regarding this incident, the public can contact JPJ Pahang on our official line or refer to official communication channels for the latest developments,” he said.

Yesterday, a 31-second video went viral showing a JPJ officer trying to detain a man, which allegedly took place in the Pahang JPJ Complex compound.

Previously, an elderly man went viral slapping a Puspakom officer in Johor Bahru, Johor after getting angry during a brake test.

The elderly man was later fined RM1,600 by the court.

Zaqhwan Zaidi will make his full-time debut in the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) in the 2025 season.

Zaqhwan, who previously competed in the Asian Motorcycle Championship (ARRC) and the World Motorcycle Championship in the Moto2 class in 2015, said he had no knowledge of the European circuit and that the issue needed to be addressed immediately.

I have no knowledge of the European circuit or the machinery, so I need to work harder to understand everything as soon as possible.

I would like to thank everyone who supported me and everyone who helped make this opportunity a success,” said Zaqhwan, who was entrusted to represent the Petronas MIE Racing team for the 2025 season in the premier class of WorldSBK.

Zaqhwan, who will be riding a Honda CBR1000RR-R, will be partnered with Great Britain’s Tarran Mackenzie (son of legendary rider Niall Mackenzie) who last season finished the campaign with seven points to be in 23rd place out of 28 riders.

The new WSBK season will see 12 races with the opening race taking place at the Phillip Island Circuit, Australia from 21 to 23 February.

The next round moves to the Algarve Circuit in Portugal from 28 to 30 March with the team scheduled to travel to Portimao earlier this month for pre-season training.

Meanwhile, team owner Midori Moriwaki is excited about the line-up for this season which also features another national rider competing in the WorldSSP class, Syarifuddin Azman, who is also a rider who has competed in the World Motorcycle Championship in the Moto3 class.

Each rider brings their own experience and with this list of riders, we continue to develop our talent program.

We are confident that we can achieve good results as we step into this new stage and are ready to face new challenges,” she said.

Giving free tolls during the festive season will not reduce traffic woes, said Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said what is important is for road users to change their attitudes and plan their journeys when the festive season arrives.

The amount of compensation in the form of compensation by the government to the toll concessionaire exceeds RM35 million per day.

Although it does not involve direct cash compensation, the concession has had to be extended and this does not solve the problem of congestion on tolled highways,” he said when asked to comment on the government’s decision to stop giving free tolls in conjunction with the festive season.

He said the decision to stop giving free tolls was a decision by the Cabinet following a recommendation from Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

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