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JPJ Issues 5306 Notices Against Commercial Vehicles in 5 Days

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued 5,306 offence notices against 17,729 commercial and public service vehicles that were inspected during the five-day Operasi Khas ‘Gempur Teknikal’ nationwide which began on December 25.

The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Transport, Datuk Jana Santhiran Muniayan, said that in the operation, 16 vehicles were seized involving 15 commercial vehicles and one public service vehicle.

He said that the special operation, which was held in conjunction with the Christmas celebration, JPJ had mobilized more than 1,500 personnel who focused on enforcement against commercial vehicle offences.

“This operation focused on overloading, technical, documentation and traffic offences as well as technical vehicle manufacturing and use.

“A total of 17,729 vehicles were inspected involving 15,770 commercial vehicles and public service vehicles (1,959).

“A total of 1,787 vehicles were subject to action while 578 vehicle owners were given inspection slips involving 544 (commercial) and public (34),” he said.

He said this to the media after leading the Special Technical Raid Operation at the Southbound Rest and Treatment Area (R&R), North-South Expressway Project (PLUS), here, today.

Also present were JPJ Senior Director of Enforcement, Muhmmad Kifli Ma Hassan and Negeri Sembilan JPJ Director, Hanif Yusabra Yusuf.

Commenting further, Jana Santhiran said his party views seriously the series of accidents and deaths due to road accidents involving commercial vehicles.

“Therefore, stricter enforcement action is being taken against vehicles that fail to comply with regulations under the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333), the Land Public Transport Act 2010 (Act 715) and Rules nationwide.

“To ensure more aggressive and proactive monitoring can be carried out, JPJ will maintain a total of 1,500 members in each special operation including during festive seasons such as Chinese New Year and the upcoming Aidilfitri,” he told Harian Metro.

Courier Stabbed in Eye – Police Denies Refusing Report

The Bentong District Police Chief has denied allegations that his department refused to accept a report made by a courier who claimed to have been stabbed in the eye.

Superintendent Zaiham Mohd Kahar said the Bentong District Police Headquarters (IPD) detected the allegation which was spread via WhatsApp.

He said, based on the screenshot, it claimed that the Bentong police refused to accept a report from a delivery man regarding a disagreement between the courier and his customer that resulted in the victim being injured.

According to him, the content of the WhatsApp that went viral was untrue because his department received the report from the victim and was investigating the case.

“The victim was also sent to Temerloh Hospital for further treatment,” he said in a statement today.

In this regard, he said, at 3.01 pm yesterday, a police report was made by an assistant criminal investigation officer of the Bentong IPD regarding the defamatory allegation.

“The case is being investigated under Section 500 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998,” he said.

Meanwhile, Zaiham advised the public to be more responsible and not arbitrarily spread something that is not true.

“Bentong Police also requested that the suspect who spread the WhatsApp message come forward to the Bentong IPD for further investigation,” he said.

1457 Deaths Involving Lorries Since 2019

A total of 1,457 deaths from 3,500 accidents involving lorries were recorded from January 2019 to November 2024. The statistics were revealed by the Director of the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) Datuk Seri Mohd. Yusri Hassan Basri.

He also detailed the number of deaths due to lorry accidents by year:

2019 – 274 deaths.
2020 – 226 deaths.
2021 – 230 deaths.
2022 – 232 deaths.
2023 – 235 deaths.
2024 (as of November) – 260 deaths.

In addition, there were 473 cases of serious injuries and 1,076 minor injuries from the total number of accidents.

For accidents involving buses, 548 cases were recorded for the same period with 153 deaths, 120 serious injuries and 218 minor injuries recorded.

“The police will continue to intensify monitoring and enforcement operations on commercial vehicles, especially lorries and buses, in an effort to reduce the alarming number of deaths recorded,” he said when contacted by Bernama today.

Datuk Seri Mohd. Yusri said the police would increase cooperation with relevant parties such as the Road Transport Department (JPJ), the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) and highway concessionaires for that purpose. He also hoped that owners, companies and drivers of commercial vehicles would work together to ensure the safety of their vehicles.

Up to RM6000 Rebate for Aprilia SR GT 200 Series

Didi Group, sole distributor and importer of Aprilia motorcycles in Malaysia is thrilled to introduce an exclusive sales campaign for its celebrated Aprilia SR GT 200 series (SR GT 200, SR GT 200 SPORT, and SR GT 200 REPLICA). This campaign start on December 2024 while stock last , offers irresistible cash rebates, exceptional value, and a chance to experience Aprilia’s innovative edge.

Campaign Highlights:

1. Aprilia SR GT 200

- Selling Price : RM19,900
- Cash Rebate: RM 6,000

2. Aprilia SR GT 200 SPORT

- Selling Price: RM20,900
- Cash Rebate: RM 5,000

3. Aprilia SR GT 200 REPLICA

- Selling Price: RM20,900
- Cash Rebate: RM 2,000

The Aprilia SR GT is more than a scooter—it’s a dynamic urban commuter designed to deliver performance, comfort, and versatility.

Key features include:

All-Terrain Capability: A semi-off-road design featuring wide, all-terrain tires ensures confident
handling on various surfaces, from city streets to rough paths.
High-Performance Engine: Powered by a 174cc i-get engine, delivering responsive acceleration and
fuel efficiency, the SR GT is perfect for daily commutes or weekend adventures.
Sporty and Ergonomic Design: Inspired by Aprilia’s racing DNA, the SR GT combines sporty
aesthetics with a rider-centric ergonomic layout for long-lasting comfort.
Advanced Technology: Includes full LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and an optional
connectivity system to sync with your smartphone for added convenience.
Superior Safety: Equipped with a front-wave disc brake and ABS for optimal stopping power.

JPJ Recalls Vehicles for Safety

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) recalls vehicles for inspection by the relevant car manufacturers to ensure safety on the road.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said all recalls are official announcements from JPJ to vehicle owners.

He said that previously if there was a vehicle problem related to technical issues, the manufacturer would issue a recall notice. “However, vehicle owners usually ignore the announcement notice and think it is a trivial matter.

“Now, we have stipulated that if there is a technical problem with the vehicle, the company must inform JPJ before the department will make an announcement to recall the vehicle for inspection.

“Owners must be aware of every announcement regarding the matter and send the vehicle back to the workshop designated by the company with the cost borne by the company,” he said when met after officiating the Negeri Sembilan-level MyLesen Program at the Kuala Klawang Great Hall here today.

Also present were Secretary-General of the Ministry of Transport Malaysia (MOT) Datuk Jana Santhiran Muniayan and JPJ Director-General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli.

Anthony Loke said that owners face safety risks when using the vehicle if they ignore the recall process.

Highway Stretch between Jitra and Hutan Kampung Reopened

The 32.1KM to 33.2KM (kilometre) stretch on the North-South Expressway between Jitra and Hutan Kampung has been reopened today.

The North-South Expressway Corporation (PLUS) Malaysia announced in a post on its Facebook page that the right lanes for both directions have been reopened for traffic. However, the left lanes for both directions are still closed due to flooding.

Northbound vehicles were diverted off the highway via the Alor Setar North Interchange and re-entered the highway via the Jitra South Interchange, during the closure of the route.

Several states in Peninsular Malaysia such as Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, Pahang, Melaka have experienced severe flooding since last week following the arrival of the Northeast Monsoon. The massive flooding has seen more than 300,000 residents in the affected states temporarily evacuated. More and more flood victims have been allowed to return to their homes, but the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a warning of a monsoon surge expected to occur next week.

MetMalaysia Issues Monsoon Surge Warning from 8 to 14 December

4,225 Passed Full B Transition Program in November

A total of 4,225 candidates for the Class B Licence Transition Program have passed as of November this year.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said that of the 5,477 candidates who sat for the transition programme, 23 per cent, or 1,251 candidates, failed in the testing process.

“As of November 27, 177 driving institutes (IMs) out of 245 IMs have been involved in offering this transition programme,” he said in response to a question from Senator Datuk Abdul Halim Suleiman on the ministry’s steps to ensure that driving licence centre operators receive and process applications that have been approved by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) for the programme.

Loke said his ministry and JPJ were constantly monitoring the implementation of the programme and action would be taken against any IM that had made a commitment to implementing the programme, but failed to process applications from the public.

MetMalaysia Issues Monsoon Surge Warning from 8 to 14 December

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a significant weather warning that a monsoon surge from 8 to 14 December 2024 is expected to bring continuous heavy rain. The states of Kelantan and Terengganu will be especially vulnerable to the storm.

Additionally and based on the analysis of the latest weather models, a convergence of winds is expected to occur in Kelantan and Terengganu starting Tuesday evening (3 December) until early Wednesday morning (4 December).

“The situation has the potential to produce thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rain during the period,” the statement said.

In this regard, the public is advised to always refer to the website www.met.gov.my and the official METMalaysia social media and download the myCuaca application for the latest and most accurate information.

We are not a weather channel but we feel this news is important for all of us who drive and ride, as well as those who are planning year-end holidays.

For your information, 2024 is the first year to record surface temperatures higher than the pre-industrial baseline of 1.50º. This means that this year is the warmest year on record.

Warmer surface temperatures not only cause droughts, but also more intense rainfall, typhoons, cyclones, and hurricanes. This is because the high heat evaporates water, resulting in more water vapour in the atmosphere. This phenomenon is called atmospheric convection. This water vapour then condenses and falls as heavy rain or storms.

Suzuki GSX-8R Price Annouced from RM53,800

Many, us included, had been waiting and even imploring Suzuki Malaysia to release the selling price of the Suzuki GSX-8R since it was revealed some time back. Now we know, it starts from RM53,800.

To recap, the Suzuki GSX-8R like its GSX-8S naked sibling have been enjoying brisk sales the world over. It has since garnered much accolade include the prestigious Motorcycle News (MCM) Sportsbike of the Year Award for 2023, despite facing stiff competition in that er… competitive category. Owners and reviewers alike loved its handling, electronics, and value.

Although it is sportier than the GSX-8S, Suzuki never forgets about rider comfort and practicality, just like GSX-R sportbike range. The GSX-8R can serve as a daily commuter and long-range tourer.

The engine is a 776cc, parallel-twin with 270º carnk, and produces 82hp at 8,500 RPM and 78Nm at 6,800 RPM. Granted, 82hp from a sub-800cc bike is not a lot, but that high torque is what makes the bike a gem to ride.

The chassis includes Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) fork, complemented by radially-mounted Nissin calipers.

Electronic rider aids include the Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) with three riding modes, dual-channel ABS, and quickshifter. There is a 5-inch TFT display.

To underline the Suzuki GSX-8R’s sporting prowess, Team Hammer had achieved their 133rd race win in the AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National championships with the bike in 2024.

We cannot wait to review this bike. Who knows, we might add it to our stable, too!

New Vehicle Sales Expected to Hit 800,000 Units in 2024

An investment bank has raised their automotive sales forecast for this year to 800,000 units from the previous 760,000 units.

The Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB Research) forecast has the potential to break the all-time high total industry volume (TIV) of 799,731 units recorded last year.

The revision by the investment bank reflects a significant backlog of orders for PERODUA and robust sales efforts by various original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the fourth quarter of 2024.

In October, TIV rebounded month-on-month by 20.3 per cent to 69,900 units, driven by PERODUA’s full production schedule and year-end sales boost by other OEMs.

However, TIV in October actually represented a 9.1 per cent decline compared to the same month last year, due to lower backlog of orders.

Total vehicle sales in Malaysia in October 2024 increased by 20 per cent compared to September to 69,859 units.

TIV for the period January to October 2024 was 2.4 percent higher at 664,002 units compared to 648,130 units in the same period in 2023.

In the 10-month period, passenger vehicles recorded sales of 608,225 units, an increase of five percent compared to 581,672 units in the same period the previous year.

For commercial vehicles, sales declined by 16 percent to 55,777 units compared to 66,458 units.

“We expect sales volumes to remain stable in the coming months due to the still high backlog for PERODUA and more aggressive sales campaigns launched by various OEMs.

“We also see more aggressive launches by Chinese OEMs with attractive pricing and features, which will provide stiff competition to existing OEMs,” he said in a research note.

The Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) also raised its TIV forecast for new vehicle sales in Malaysia to 800,000 units for 2024.

The new forecast is equivalent to an increase of 35,000 units compared to the forecast made last July of 765,000 units.

Opposition MP Calls to Stop Sexy Models at MotoGP

Permatang Pauh MP Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan raised the issue of employing sexily-dressed female models in MotoGP because it contradicts against Islamic teachings and the Rukun Negara.

He requested the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kementerian Belia dan Sukan/KBS) to stop the practice during the Debate Session of the Supply Bill (RUU) 2025 at the Committee Level for KBS at the Dewan Rakyat yesterday (November 27).

“We recently watched the Sepang 2024 MotoGP competition in early November.

“So I would like to raise the issue that apart from the event being well-executed, there are several things that could be improved.

“I want to share about the issue of the tradition of displaying sexy female models throughout the event.

“If we see it as contradicting the teachings of Islam and our fifth Rukun Negara, which is Modesty and Morality, it is very inappropriate for a motor sport that is enjoyed by men and is popular with various levels of society to be presented with such things, and many visitors even complained,” he said.

Therefore, he requested KBS to take the matter seriously, such as taking action to improve the issue of alcohol delivery during Formula One (F1) races, previously. (Formula One has also stopped the service of umbrella girls for several years. – Editor.)

“So I request that KBS take this view into account as we have done before.

“If we look at the F1 sports category, there was a ceremony where alcohol was given on the podium, but in recent years, before SIC was not activated, we have seen that alcohol was not given.

“This is a good thing and may be practiced in our country, especially in the issue of conspicuous women,” he said.

Earlier, Muhammad Fawwaz also agreed to the cooperation agreement signed between the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Petronas.

“I agree with the agreement between SIC and Petronas to work together for three years to reduce SIC’s dependence on the government.

“In fact, the string of these agreements if we see many vibrant programs being implemented at SIC,” he said.

Buy a Kawasaki, Get Another One For Free!

Have you been looking for a new bike but can’t decide on which one? Well, we have a really good reason to entice you to buy a Kawasaki instead of anything else.

In fact this is your best chance ever to buy one Kawasaki and stand a chance to get another one for free!
In collaboration with AEON Credit, Kawasaki Malaysia has announced the AEON “Buy & Win” Campaign, and this is where you stand a chance to win an exclusive Grand Prize worth RM36,000 and plenty more.

All you have to do is walk into any of the 12 designated Kawasaki All-Star Dealers around the country (find a list of the dealers here) and pick a Kawasaki model that suits you and your riding style.

You don’t even have to worry about buying the chosen bike in cash because AEON Credit will give you a loan for it, as long as you meet their requirements that is.

All you have to do is select any Kawasaki model, submit a completed loan application form with all the required supporting documents to AEON Credit (the dealer will do the submission for you), and cross your fingers and pray for good luck.

You don’t even have to worry about winning the Grand Prize because even the second and third prize is fantastic already. Here’s a list of what you stand to win:

1. Grand Prize: 1 x Modenas Versys 650
2. 2nd Prize: 1 x Modenas Ninja 250
3. 3rd Prize: 1 x Modenas Ninja Z250
4. Consolation Prize: 2 x Action Camera
5. Consolation Prize: 3 x Riding Jacket
6. Consolation Prize: 5 x Full-Face Helmet

If you are wondering why you should even bother participating because you usually don’t have any luck in lucky draws, well there is also another great reason!

If you buy a Kawasaki through AEON Motorcycle Financing, you stand to obtain a margin of finance of up to 90% for a tenure term of between one to seven years! That’s a great chance for you to manage your cash flow for other great things you can do with your new Kawasaki, such as plan and save for a road trip to Thailand with your loved one.

So there has never been a better time to buy a Kawasaki, and the great thing about this campaign is that it is open to all Kawasaki models.

This campaign only runs till the end of the year and comes to a close on December 31st, so if you have been looking for that one great opportunity to reward yourself, there has never been a better time!

For more information regarding this campaign including the terms and conditions, click here.