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AMI-Suzuki Road Safety Campaign 2025 Launched

Suzuki Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., in collaboration with the Malaysian Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA), launched the AMI-Suzuki Road Safety Campaign 2025 at Dataran Ilmu, Selayang Stadium, today.

The opening ceremony was officiated by Yang Berhormat Datuk Haji Hasbi bin Haji Habibollah, Deputy Minister of Transport of Malaysia, together with a host of guests of honour.

The campaign, themed “Share the Road, Ride Wisely” in 2025, is being organised for the 2nd time by Suzuki Malaysia and the 8th time by AFY Mobility Industries (AMI). It aims to raise awareness of road safety among motorcyclists, vehicle drivers, and the general public.

In his speech, YB Datuk Haji Hasbi bin Haji Habibollah highlighted the alarming road accident statistics: “Based on the latest statistics from the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department, Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), a total of 5,939 deaths were recorded from 585,729 accident cases reported up to November 2024. Of this total, 67% or 4,014 deaths involved motorcycle riders and pillion riders, with the majority consisting of youths aged 16 to 35 years. This group is now the largest contributor to the number of deaths due to road accidents.”

Yang Berhormat Datuk Haji Hasbi also stressed the importance of having a valid driving license for motorcyclists: “I would like to draw the attention of all parties to the critical need to have a valid driving license before being allowed to ride a motorcycle on the road. This basic step is important to ensure the safety of all road users.”

He also reiterated the government’s commitment through the safety and enforcement agencies under the Ministry of Transport Malaysia in efforts to address this challenge and improve road safety for all users.

Campaign Activities and Programs

The campaign also offers various interesting activities to visitors, including:

Free motorcycle inspection – ‘16-point check’ by certified Suzuki Malaysia mechanics.
Replacement of 400 units of new helmets to motorcyclists.
Giving out children’s helmets as a symbolic measure to protect young passengers.
Exhibition of motorcycles and safety accessories.

Yang Berbahagia En. Ahmad Faez Bin Tan Sri Yahaya, Executive Chairman of Suzuki Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. Group in his speech emphasized Suzuki Malaysia’s commitment to continue supporting road safety initiatives, especially motorcyclists, for the well-being of the community.

Campaign Opening

The opening ceremony was concluded with a symbolic gong beating event by Yang Berhormat Datuk Haji Hasbi bin Haji Habibollah, together with Yang Berbahagia Encik Yap Kiew San, Chairman of MMSDA, and Yang Berbahagia En. Ahmad Faez Bin Tan Sri Yahaya.

Closing and Hope

The AMI-Suzuki Road Safety Campaign 2025 provides various activities and educational opportunities to increase road safety awareness. With the cooperation of all parties, this campaign is expected to contribute to reducing accident rates and creating a safer road culture in Malaysia.

MACC Arrests Another 13 Puspakom Vehicle Inspectors

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested 13 more Puspakom vehicle inspection officers. The total number of arrests now stands at 19 Puspakom officers, 1 agent, and 2 runners.

All the male suspects, aged between 20 and 40, were detained between 1pm and 2pm yesterday and 10am and 3pm today while they were giving statements at the MACC Headquarters in Putrajaya.

“Initial investigations found that all the suspects were believed to have received bribes of between RM150 and RM1,500 per month in cash from runners in return for helping to pass vehicle inspections where they were working.

“The arrest of all the suspects follows the arrest of six vehicle inspection officers last Monday and also the result of interrogation conducted by the MACC on an agent who was handed over by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) earlier,” said a source.

Meanwhile, MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner (Operations), Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya when contacted confirmed the arrest and said that the case is being investigated under Section 16 (b) (A) of the MACC Act 2009.

However, he said that all 13 vehicle inspection officers who were arrested yesterday and today will be released on MACC bail after their statements are taken.

We have featured news on the arrest of 6 Puspkom vehicle inspection officers by the Anti-Corruption Commission Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) a few days ago. Following that, there were some rather interesting comments such as, “Provide a bigger lockup.” There was also an allegation by a lorry driver that he was denied approval three times until he hired the services of a ‘runner.’

1,300 Bookings for Zontes 368G Scooter Within One Week

It looks like Zontes has hit the sweet spot here in Malaysia, as there are already 1,300 bookings for the Zontes 368G scooter within one week of its official launch. It was launched on 2nd January 2025.

Begin Press Release:

ZONTES Malaysia is delighted to announce that, until now (9th January) the recently launched ZONTES 368G has received more than 1300 bookings. With a basic selling price (BSP) of RM28,800, this adventure scooter has become a popular choice among Malaysians who are seeking a versatile ride on the road, whether it is for daily commutes or light off-roading.

The ZONTES 368G Adventure Scooter is a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) model manufactured in a local CKD assembly plant in Jitra, Kedah. Riders can enjoy top-quality scooter features such as a larger-than-average fuel tank and extensive safety features at an inexpensive price. After the production and inspection stages, this model is scheduled to be delivered in March 2025, ensuring owners receive their product with utmost satisfaction.

In the meantime, interested buyers are welcome to arrange a viewing and make a booking at any authorised ZONTES dealer across Malaysia. On top of that, ZONTES Malaysia will be hosting a nationwide roadshow from 3rd January to 6th April 2025. Biking enthusiasts can seize this opportunity to have a closer view of this adventure scooter.

You may refer to this table for specific dates and details:

For more information on the ZONTES 368G, please visit the official website of ZONTES Malaysia at https://zontesmalaysia.com/

Zontes 368G First Ride Review, The Game Changer

MACC Arrests 6 Puspakom Officers, 2 Individuals

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested eight individuals, including six vehicle inspection officers, who were suspected of being involved in a syndicate that approved heavy vehicle inspections at a Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) in the capital.

Sources said that all the male suspects, aged between 30 and 50, were arrested when they appeared to give statements at the MACC Headquarters in Putrajaya from 12 noon to 11 pm.

“The arrest of all the suspects is the result of an interrogation conducted by the MACC on an agent who was handed over by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) earlier.

“However, the six vehicle inspection officers involved have been released on MACC bail after their statements were taken,” he said.

The six inspection officers have been suspended by Puspakom.

PUSPAKOM Chief Executive Officer Mahmood Razak Bahman said his party views the case seriously and will not tolerate any misconduct, especially involving the integrity of vehicle inspection operations.

“PUSPAKOM will not protect anyone involved in corruption,” he said.

Meanwhile, two other individuals have been remanded for five days starting today until January 11.

The remand order was issued by Magistrate Irza Zulaikha after an application was made by the MACC at the Putrajaya Magistrate’s Court, this morning.

Meanwhile, MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner (Operations), Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya, when contacted, confirmed the arrests and informed that the case is being investigated under Section 16 (b) (A) of the MACC Act 2009.

According to him, so far the MACC has arrested nine individuals and does not rule out the possibility of several follow-up arrests being made to assist in the investigation.

New Colours for 2025 Honda Wave Alpha

Boon Siew Honda announces new colours for the 2025 Honda Wave Alpha. The long-running model is popular among those who seek a simple, round-around motorcycle.

The rest of the bike stays unchanged. Hence it is powered by the same EEV (energy efficient vehicle)-certified 109.2cc engine with Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), which delivers optimised performance and enhanced fuel efficiency. The 7.3-litre under-seat storage space is still there, allowing for the rider to carry small items such as a rainsuit, jacket, or other personal belongings. The fuel tank capacity remains at 4.1 litres.

Braking is handled by a single disc up front and a drum brake at the back.

The new colours are called Silver, Blue, Red and the classic Black. Net selling price excluding road tax, insurance, and registration is RM5,309 for Silver, Blue, and Red, while the Black option sells for RM5,259.

For your peace of mind, Boon Siew Honda offers two years or 20,000 manufacturing warranty, whichever comes first. For more information, please click www.boonsiewhonda.com.my or visit the nearest Honda Impian X. Customers may also reach Boon Siew Honda via our toll-free number at 1-800-88-3993.

Cameron Highlands Road is Blocked Again

The Simpang Pulai-Cameron Highlands Road was blocked was blocked by a landslide on October 25, 2024, and was reopened on December 19. However, it is now blocked again by another landslide.

The landslide occurred on the main road in Kampung Raja near the Blue Valley junction, here, at about 3.15 am this morning due to continuous heavy rain.

The landslide caused the main route from Simpang Pulai/Lojing to Cameron Highlands to be blocked in both directions.

According to a statement from the Cameron Highlands District Disaster Management Secretariat, road users are advised to use an alternative route via Jalan Sungai Koyan in Lipis or Jalan Tapah to Cameron Highlands.

The Pahang Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) has been dispatched to the location to monitor the situation, provide assistance and ensure the safety of the area.

Work to remove the rubble is currently underway to reopen the route to users.

Puspakom Admits Unable to Detect Rented Part

The Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) admitted that it does not have a specific mechanism to detect commercial vehicles that use rented spare parts to obtain approval during inspections.

Puspakom is clear that this situation makes it impossible for it to detect vehicles that try to cheat during inspections.

In this regard, it is currently holding discussions with authorities including relevant ministries to help Puspakom conduct inspections more accurately and in detail.

“We cannot detect the use of rented vehicle components such as tires, brakes, brake pads and so on, because they are quite common.

“However, we are in discussions with regulators and ministries to improve our processes. This step could lead to more accurate and thorough inspections involving the use of technology.

“For example, when we asked about the tire issue, even though we checked it, because the damage was caused by the brakes (axles), we did not have the ability to check that part.

“When we check the brake performance, we will check the effectiveness of the brakes and the tire performance,” he said.

The tire or other component replacement service to pass the Puspakom inspection, which was openly advertised on social media, became the focus after the tragedy that claimed seven lives in Melaka on December 23.

The crash that killed five members of a family, a tour bus driver and a passenger at Kilometer 204 of the North-South Highway heading north near the Ayer Keroh rest and service area, was believed to have been caused by a lorry’s front tire coming off and being in the middle lane of the highway.

Following that, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) launched a simultaneous Puspakom Shock Operation nationwide and detected heavy vehicles using old and unsafe dipped tires that were at risk of exploding at any time, and came to inspect the center in question.

Lorry Hits MPV, One Killed, 7 Month Old Bay in Serious Condition

The journey home of two families from an engagement ceremony in Muar ended in tragedy when one of them died after a lorry entered the opposite lane and hit their multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) at Kilometer (KM) 86, Jalan Johor Bahru-Air Hitam, yesterday.

Kluang District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Bahrin Mohd Noh said Widiani Afendi, 39, the rear passenger of the Toyota Estima, died instantly at the scene in the 7.15pm incident due to severe head injuries.

He said that the seven-month-old baby, Lee Sun Mei, who is also the family’s adopted child, suffered internal head injuries and is receiving treatment at the Red Zone of the Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom Hospital (HEBHK), here.

“The accident also caused minor injuries to the 53-year-old lorry driver and six others in the MPV, including drivers aged six to 58.

“The accident is believed to have occurred after the lorry from the direction of Machap heading towards Air Hitam lost control and entered the opposite lane and hit the right side of the MPV.

“The injured victim is receiving treatment at HEBHK Kluang. The lorry driver, who was injured in the head and chest, is receiving treatment at Pantai Hospital Batu Pahat,” he said.

According to him, the case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

Harley-Davidson 2025 Select Motorcycles Revealed

Harley-Davidson today revealed select models from its 2025 motorcycle portfolio on H-D.com. These bikes will be available at authorised Harley-Davidson dealerships globally.

Harley-Davidson also announced Harley-Davidson Factory Custom Paint & Graphics, a new program offering highly desirable paint-and-graphics schemes on select motorcycle models. Additional 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including the 26th annual installment of the limited-production Custom Vehicle OperationTM (CVOTM) collection, will be revealed on H-D.com at 5 p.m. CST on January 23 (7 a.m., January 24, Malaysian time).

Grand American Touring

From the company that invented the cross-country experience. Grand American Touring models are designed to carry riders over the horizon with comfort, performance and technology that makes the journey spectacular. Returning models include the Street Glide®, Road Glide®, and Road King® Special motorcycles.

2025 Location Photography – FLHX Street Glide®, FLTRX Road Glide. CONFIDENTIAL & EMBARGOED UNTIL JAN 2, 2025 AT 5PM CST

Harley-Davidson® Factory Custom Paint & Graphics

Harley-Davidson Factory Custom Paint & Graphics offers premium paint-and-graphics schemes on select motorcycle models for customers who crave a unique, show-stopping finish. When ordered through an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer, a Harley-Davidson® Factory Custom Paint & Graphics finish is applied by Harley-Davidson to components installed as the motorcycle is assembled. The customer receives a motorcycle with exclusive paint-and-graphics, backed with a full factory warranty, without the expense or downtime associated with custom paint applied by a third party.

For 2025, three Harley-Davidson® Factory Custom Paint & Graphics offerings will be available on select models. Each paint set features a special black tank medallion with chrome accents and a mother-of-pearl textured background in either purple or orange.

Mystic Shift offers a dramatic hue shift which travels from a dark gun metal to purple to blue to almost orange and is especially apparent in full sunlight when walking around the motorcycle.

Firestorm responds to a current custom trend for flame details in paint. Harley-Davidson offered its first factory flame paint scheme on the 1980 Wide Glide® model and has reprised the look several times, most notably on the 2011 Wide Glide® model. The Firestorm schemes feature a “ghost fade” or inner fade effect – the fade color is slightly brighter than the basecoat. In certain angles, the flames pop dramatically but are subtle in others. The Firestorm schemes are available in two popular colors.
- Midnight Firestorm is a dark flamed paint scheme featuring ghosted flames over a Vivid Black base with a charcoal inner glow.

- Whiskey Firestorm features an added mid-coat for a deeper orange shade with Ember Sunglo ghost flames with a brighter orange inner glow.

Model availability, timing, variants, colors, specifications and pricing may vary by market. Customers can enquire more information with their local H-D dealerships.

JPJ Offers Special Compound for 3 Offences for 6 Months

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is offering a special compound rate of RM150 for 3 offences for 6 months, starting today, January 3, 2025.

Malaysian Transport Minister, YB Anthony Loke said it involves 3 types of JPJ summons notices, namely the Automatic Awareness Security System (AwAS) summons (Summon 53A), the Investigation Interview Notice (114) and the Stamped Summons Notice/JPJ(P)23 (115).

All three usually have a compound rate of RM300. So we are giving a special compound rate starting tomorrow, January 3, for six months so that they can settle this compound.

“Because there are two million outstanding AwAS summons… and there are indeed restrictions on those who do not settle AwAS summons, if they do not settle the summons they cannot renew their driving licence or motor vehicle licence,” he said.

Loke said payments can be made through various channels including at JPJ counters, public portals, JPJ kiosks, JPJ mobile counters and the myJPJ application.

He said the special compound payment cannot be made through the MyEG channel and at Pos Malaysia.

Meanwhile, he said the collection of demerit points will be temporarily suspended from tomorrow until June 30.

Loke said during that period, the JPJ Enforcement Division will conduct a review of the method of implementing the Demerit Points System.

2025 Zontes 368G Price Announced in Malaysia – From RM28,800

Finally, after much anticipation, rumours, gnashing of teeth, the 2025 Zontes 368G’s price has been announced in Malaysia. Zontes Malaysia puts the recommended selling price at RM28,800.

We have posted about the bike’s mind-boggling list of features from our test rides in Guangzhou, China, but here is a recap (the ones we missed are highlighted in bold):

368cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, single-cylinder engine that produces a whopping 38.8hp and 40Nm of torque. It takes the prize as the most powerful powerplant in the 350cc-400cc scooter category.
Upside-down 41mm forks adjustable for compression damping and tension (rebound damping).

Dual shocks adjustable for preload and tension, with remote reservoirs.
300mm front disc grabbed by a four-piston J.Juan radially-mounted caliper. J.Juan is now owned by Brembo.

ABS is dual-channel but the rear ABS can be turned off for off-road riding.
790mm standard seat height. The owner can opt for the 770mm lowered seat height.

Ground clearance is 180mm.
Front wheels are 17-inches, the rear are 14-inches.

Massive 52-liter underseat storage space that can take two full-face helmets. You can fit an adventure helmet (sideways) at the rear portion!
Three. Yes, 3(!) USB charging ports.

8-inch colour TFT screen which supports connectivity to the rider’s smartphone and Bluetooth intercom.
Two power modes – Sport and Economy.

Backlit switchgear.
Keyless ignition and fuel filler cover.

Adjustable windscreen over 7 positions.
Adjustable front and rear brake levers.

Hand protectors are standard.
Extra pair of footpegs for the rider to stand on when riding off-road (or if he wants to ride aggressively).

Front and rear facing dashcam as a standard feature.
Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Heated grips. Don’t laugh about this feature – wait until you ride at Genting Highlands in the rain!
Crash protection bars.

There are three colourways, namely Grey with Blue, White with Gold, and Golden Stone Green.

Last but not least, about consumers’ concerns about after-sales and spare parts availability, this is what Zontes Malaysia has to say:

In light of recent public concerns about our after-sales services, particularly the availability of spare parts, we have undertaken a comprehensive review and implemented a series of measures to address this issue. Our primary goal is to ensure that our customers will not experience and inconvenience due to spare parts shortages in the future. These measures include increasing our inventory levels and establishing a stronger partnership with (the) Zontes HQ. We are committed to provide the highest leverl of service and reliability to our customers.

Picture gallery

Two Puspakom Personnel Called for Questioning

The Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) confirmed that two of its employees from the Wangsa Maju branch have been summoned to give statements to the Road Transport Department (JPJ), today.

Its Chief Executive Officer, Mahmood Razak Bahman, however, did not elaborate on why the two employees were ordered to give statements to the JPJ Enforcement Department.

“Puspakom stressed that the staff involved will not be protected from any internal disciplinary action, if any misconduct is proven.

“To ensure the integrity of Puspakom’s inspection, the company will not hesitate to take appropriate action against the staff involved as provided for under the terms and conditions of the employment contract, including suspension or dismissal,” he said in a statement to the press, yesterday.

Apart from that, Mahmood also confirmed that a vehicle inspected at the Wangsa Maju branch was seized by JPJ for using a foreign driver without a valid driving license.

Earlier, JPJ was reported to have conducted simultaneous operations at all Puspakom branches nationwide yesterday, to ensure that every vehicle inspected at the facility complies with the set standards.

Among the offences detected by lorry drivers in PUSPAKOM’s Surprise Operation was the use of worn and unsafe dipped tyres among heavy vehicles, despite being aware that they were at risk of leaking at any time.

Meanwhile, Mahmood said that full cooperation would be given to JPJ which was conducting surprise inspections at all Puspakom branches nationwide, today.

He said Puspakom also welcomed the enforcement action on the company’s branches, aimed at ensuring that inspection operations are carried out in accordance with the standard operating procedures (SOP) set.

“This step will help in efforts to instill road safety practices in the country.

“The collaboration between Puspakom and JPJ is believed to strengthen efforts to improve road safety levels and preserve the integrity of the country’s transportation system.

“Puspakom is always committed to ensuring that all vehicles inspected meet the set safety requirements.

“This surprise inspection is part of JPJ’s ongoing efforts to ensure safety and compliance with laws relating to vehicles on the road.

“We fully support the initiative to ensure that all inspection procedures are carried out transparently and in accordance with the standards set by the authorities,” he said.