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Tyre Makers Inspect Tyres Following Op Grip

Leading tyre makers brought their technical personnel to detect misconduct and issues with imported products stored in the warehouse.

Eight international and local tyre manufacturing companies, namely Michelin, Bridgestone, Toyo, Continental, Goodyear, Yokohama, Maxxis, and Pirelli, participated in the inspection, following the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s (MACC) recent Op Grip.

Among the offenses detected by the companies’ technical teams were those related to modified production dates, counterfeit remolded tires, and the entry of tyres from Europe.

Enforcement officers from the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) and SIRIM Berhad were also present to conduct the inspection.

Besides the technical inspection, the Senior Director of MACC’s Special Operations Division, Datuk Mohamad Zamri Zainul Abidin, held discussions with tire industry representatives at the MACC Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Mohamad Zamri said industry representatives need to find more sustainable solutions to ensure no further leakage of government revenue in the tyre import industry.

He asked all industry players to ensure the issue is fully resolved because it not only involves government revenue but also the safety of road consumers.

“We ask industry players to go down to the field or the warehouses raided in the recent Op Grip themselves so that they can understand this issue more closely and implement immediate solutions.

“More importantly, this matter involves the safety of road consumers,” he said.

On Monday, the MACC raided several companies at 23 locations nationwide, which are believed to be involved in tyre smuggling and the forgery of import and export documents, causing the government to lose approximately RM350 million in tax revenue from 2020 until now.

The raids were conducted on companies involved in import businesses, as well as tyre storage warehouses and containers.

As a result of the raids, the MACC has frozen private and company bank accounts involving an estimated value of about RM70 million.

The raids were carried out through an integrated operation, Op Grip, led by the MACC’s Special Operations Division in collaboration with the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), Bank Negara Malaysia, and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department in the Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor.

Police are Hunting for Rider who Hit a Schoolgirl and Ran

Police are tracking down a motorcyclist who hit a schoolgirl while she was crossing near a school in Permatang Pauh, Penang, yesterday. The motorcyclist ran off without stopping.

Seberang Perai Tengah District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Helmi Aris, said initial investigations found the incident occurred during school dismissal time.

“During the incident, the eight-year-old student was crossing the road with her friend before she was hit by a motorcycle.

“As a result, the victim sustained minor injuries to her left ankle. A police report regarding the incident has been received and efforts to track down the motorcyclist involved are underway,” he said in a statement.

Helmi said witnesses or members of the public with information related to the incident are urged to come forward to the Traffic Police Station of the Seberang Perai Tengah District Police Headquarters or contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Azrol Md Rejab, at 019-5429571 to assist the investigation.

The case is being investigated under Rule 10 of the Road Traffic Rules 1959 (Rule 10 LN 166/59), which is failing to properly control the movement of a vehicle.

A 42-second video depicting the accident had previously gone viral on the Facebook platform.

The video footage shows a security guard stopping traffic to allow two female students to cross the road.

However, a motorcycle failed to stop, causing one of the students to fall onto the road and sustain minor injuries.

Mforce Oil Launched

As we published previously, picking the correct oil for your motorcycle can be a daunting tasks. There are countless numbers of brands and finding one that fits the characteristics of your motorcycle can be a hit and miss affair. But not so with OEM oils that have been formulated to suit your motorcycle. Mforce Oil is the latest to move in this direction.

From the Press Release

In conjunction with the Mforce Mid-Autumn Gala held at Courtyard Kuala Lumpur South, Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

made a launch of its brand-new motorcycle lubricant line, Mforce Oil, developed through a strategic collaboration with PETRONAS.

The launch was officiated by Asri Ahmad, Chief Operating Officer of Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd., together with Mohd Zameer Zahur Hussain, Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS Lubricants Marketing (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. Mforce Oil is available in eight (8) lubricant variants, catering to motorcycles of different segments:

This collaboration with PETRONAS aims to deliver high-quality motorcycle lubricants that not only comply with international standards but also enhance engine durability, efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Mforce Oil Powered by PETRONAS is formulated using PETRONAS’ latest lubricant technology, ensuring high-quality performance and reliability. As a genuine product developed specifically for Mforce, the formulation meets the exact specifications provided by Mforce, combining advanced additive technology and base oils to deliver optimal engine protection and efficiency.

Mforce Oil will be distributed nationwide through Mforce’s authorised dealer network, providing customers with premium products backed by proven quality and reliability.

With the launch of Mforce Oil, Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd. takes another significant step forward in the motorcycle industry, setting its sights on becoming a leader in the local motorcycle lubricant segment. The strong partnership with PETRONAS is expected to pave the way for further innovations and new product developments in the future.

WMOTO EZ125i and WMOTO Cruiser AMT 125i Launched

In addition to the three latest SYM models, Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd. also recently launched two WMOTO motorcycles, namely the WMOTO EZ125i and WMOTO Cruiser AMT 125i.

The official launch was held exclusively at the Courtyard by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South in conjunction with the Mforce Mid-Autumn Gala event. All three models are available at all authorized Mforce dealers throughout Malaysia.

WMOTO EZ125i (Priced from RM4,588)

This scooter is a compact-sized ‘urban’ type, combined with practical features.

It is equipped with a 124cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled engine that produces a maximum power of 11.8 hp (8.8 kW) at 7,500 RPM and 9.5 Nm at 6,000 RPM.

The drive system is an automatic CVT type with a final belt drive.
The suspension consists of a telescopic fork at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear.

The braking system consists of a front disc brake and a rear drum brake.
The tire sizes are 70/90-14 at the front and 80/90-14 at the rear.

The seat height is 760mm, while its dry weight is only 95 kg with a fuel tank capacity of 6.5 liters.
The WMOTO EZ125i features a full LED digital meter, LED headlight, tail light, turn signals, and emergency lights, a USB Type-A charging port, a mechanical locking system, and LED lighting.

It features storage compartments on both the left and right front, as well as under-seat storage.
It is offered in four attractive color options: Silver Grey, Grey, Red, and Deep Sky Blue. This model is now available through authorized Mforce dealers across Malaysia.

With every purchase of any WMOTO EZ125i model, buyers can enjoy a manufacturer’s warranty of two years or 20,000 kilometers (whichever comes first), as well as online original parts purchasing services provided by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

WMOTO Cruiser AMT 125 (Priced from RM5,988)

This motorcycle is a ‘cruiser’ type but features a custom-style design. However, it is a small-capacity, lightweight motorcycle with a fully automatic transmission.

It is equipped with a 124cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, air-cooled engine.

This engine produces a maximum power of 7.8 hp (5.8 kW) at 8,000 RPM and a peak torque of 8.8 Nm at 6,000 RPM.
The transmission uses a fully automatic system with a final chain drive, coupled with a wet-type automatic centrifugal clutch.

The suspension system consists of a telescopic fork at the front and a single shock absorber at the rear.
The braking system is equipped with a 220 mm front disc and a 200 mm rear disc.

The front tire is size 80/90-17 M/C and the rear is 140/70-13 M/C.
The seat height is only 680 mm, with a total weight of 119kg, and the fuel tank has a capacity of 6 liters.

The WMOTO Cruiser AMT 125 is equipped with a full LED lighting system (headlight, tail light, turn signals, and hazard lights), an analog-digital meter display, a 4A.h battery, and a mechanical locking system.
It also features a custom-style seat design.

This motorcycle is offered in three colors: Green, Cream, and Black.

With every purchase of any WMOTO Cruiser AMT 125 model, buyers are entitled to a manufacturer’s warranty of two years or 20,000 kilometers (whichever comes first), along with online original parts purchasing services provided by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

SYM Naga 155, SYM VFE185i, SYM Cruisym 400i Launched in Malaysia

Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd., the sole distributor of SYM brand motorcycles in Malaysia, launched three models yesterday: the SYM Naga 155, SYM VFE185i, and SYM Cruisym 400i.

SYM Naga 155 (Priced from RM8,888)

This scooter showcases several interesting features, not least is the finishing on its body panels that resemble snake scales. We had the opportunity to see it up close when we visited the SYM factory last April.

It is powered by a 149.6cc single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 4-valve engine with an 11.2:1 compression ratio, which produces a maximum power of 14.2 hp (10.6 kW) at 8,000 RPM and a peak torque of 13 Nm at 7,500 RPM.

The piston size is a 57.4mm stroke x 57.8mm bore, offering a balance of acceleration and maximum power.
It uses a CVT transmission with final belt drive and automatic centrifugal clutch.

The front suspension uses a telescopic fork, with an inclined monoshock at the rear.
Braking duties are handled by a single 260 mm disc brake at the front and a single 233 mm disc brake at the rear.

The ABS system supports both brakes.
For added safety, the SYM NAGA 155 is equipped with a Traction Control System (TCS).

The front tire is a tubeless 120/70-R13, while the rear tire is a tubeless 130/70-R13.
The seat height is 800 mm.

The fuel tank capacity is 7.3 liters, while the overall weight is 144 kg.
Other features include LED lights, a color digital meter display, a keyless system, and QC 3.0, Type-C, and Type-A USB charging ports.

The convenience features include a front storage pocket with a cup holder, under-seat storage that can accommodate a full-face helmet, wider footrests, a hidden hook, and a saddle padded with high-density foam.
The color options are Matte Green, Black, White, and Silver.

With every purchase of any SYM NAGA 155 model, buyers can enjoy a two-year manufacturer’s warranty or 20,000 km coverage (whichever comes first), along with online genuine parts purchasing services provided by Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

SYM VFE185i (Priced from RM9,888)

This model is a ‘super moped’ or the ultimate ‘kapcai’ in Malaysia, featuring the largest engine capacity in its class.

It is powered by a 183cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, liquid-cooled engine that produces a maximum power of 19.7 hp (14.7 kW) at 9,000 RPM and a maximum torque of 17.5 Nm at 7,500 RPM.

It features a 6-speed transmission with a chain final drive, combined with a wet multi-disc clutch, and mechanical throttle system.
The suspension consists of a telescopic fork and a monoshock at the rear.

Braking is handled by a single 260 mm disc brake at the front and a single 233 mm disc brake at the rear.
An ABS system supports both brakes.

For tires, this model uses a 90/80-17 (tubeless) at the front and a 120/80-17 (tubeless) at the rear.
Other features include LED lights, a color digital meter display, a keyless system, and QC 3.0, Type-C, and Type-A USB charging ports.

The seat height is 800mm, while the overall weight is only 135kg, with a 7-liter fuel tank.
There are three attractive color options: White, Green, and Blue.

SYM Cruisym 400i (Priced from RM27,888)

This model is a 400cc maxi-scooter type, differing from the SYM ADXTG 400 which is an adventure-style scooter. As such, this Cruisym model is suitable for daily use and long-distance touring.

Powered by a single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC 399cc engine, the SYM Cruisym 400i produces a maximum power of 33.5 hp (25 kW) at 6,750 RPM and a maximum torque of 37 Nm at 5,000 RPM.

The transmission uses a CVT system paired with an automatic centrifugal clutch and a final belt drive.
In terms of the chassis, it utilizes a steel underbone frame and is paired with a telescopic front suspension, while the rear uses an adjustable suspension with direct damping adjustment.

Safety is enhanced with a 280mm front disc brake and a 275mm rear disc brake, both supported by a Bosch ABS system.
Aluminum rims, MT3.5 × 15 at the front and MT4.5 × 14 at the rear, are paired with tubeless tires: a 120/70-R15 front and a 160/60-R14 rear.

For added safety, the SYM Cruisym 400i is equipped with a Traction Control System (TCS).
This model comes with various modern features, including a TFT display, a smart key system with buttons for opening the fuel cap and seat, as well as comprehensive charging ports: Type-C (QC 3.0), Type-A, and a 12V socket.

The SYM Cruisym 400i provides two front storage compartments and under-seat storage that can accommodate one full-face helmet and one standard helmet.
It is also equipped with front and rear dashcams, a manually adjustable sporty windscreen, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Its split-seat with a backrest provides maximum comfort for both the rider and the passenger.
In terms of lighting, it uses a naked projective LED headlight, along with LED taillights and turn signals.

The seat height is 785mm, with a dry weight of 222kg and a 14.5-liter fuel tank.
There are three color options: Space Grey, Dark Night Purple, and Dreamy White.

With every purchase of any SYM Cruisym 400i model, buyers can enjoy a two-year manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage and online genuine parts purchasing services provided by Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

2 Million Road Users Set to be Blacklisted – JPJ

Nearly two million road users will be blacklisted by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) following their failure to settle outstanding summonses for various traffic offenses.

Malaysia JPJ Senior Director of Enforcement, Datuk Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan, said the offenses involve summonses from the Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) (Summons 53A), Notice of Inquiry (114), and Notice of Affixed Summons/JPJ(P)23 (115).

He said that besides the risk of being blacklisted, the compound fine imposed will also be increased to RM300, in addition to facing the Demerit Points for Traffic Offenses (KEJARA).

“Therefore, those who have the relevant summonses should take the opportunity to make payments through the special compound offer at a flat rate of RM150 for the three offenses, which was launched in early January and lasts until the end of December this year.

“According to statistical reports from January until yesterday, there were over 1.45 million summonses involving AWAS notices, followed by 296,684 notices for 114, and 164,598 notices for 115.

“Some of the identified summonses are notices issued since over 15 years ago, and JPJ is still giving road users the opportunity to settle their outstanding summonses to avoid being blacklisted,” he said in a press conference after the Ops Khas Gempur Perdagangan near the JPJ Eastern Region Academy here, last night.

The location with the highest number of summonses through AWAS is at the Menora Tunnel, Ipoh, which can reach up to 3,000 summonses a day.

“The number of summonses is the result of two cameras installed, and the offenses recorded are often committed by road users during festive seasons or school holidays when they use that route to head north or south.

“Usually, the offenses involve vehicles exceeding the permitted speed limit of 80 kilometers per hour (km/h).

“Furthermore, the three states with the highest number of summons notices are Selangor, Perak, and Johor, where the records also depend on the number of AWAS cameras installed in each state,” he said.

MACC Cripples Tyre Smuggling Sindicate

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) crippled a tyre smuggling syndicate through raids at 23 separate locations in the Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor, via Ops Grip, yesterday.

The MACC also froze several private and company accounts worth RM70 million, which are also suspected of being involved in activities falsifying import and export documents, causing tax losses to the country reaching RM350 million since 2020.

“The raids were carried out through the integrated operation Ops Grip, led by the Special Operations Division (BOK) with the cooperation of the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM).

“The operation involved 23 locations around the Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor, involving companies engaged in the business of importing tyres, as well as warehouses and containers for storing tyres,” a statement said today.

Sources said the investigation is also focused on efforts to track and seize other assets acquired through money laundering activities involving the syndicate.

It is understood that the seizures also involved used tyres that do not meet standards, which are feared could compromise consumer safety and are merely waiting for an accident to happen, akin to a ‘ticking time bomb’.

Meanwhile, the Senior Director of the MACC’s Special Operations Division, Datuk Mohamad Zamri Zainul Abidin, confirmed the raids.

“The investigation is being conducted under Section 18 of the MACC Act 2009 and Section 4(1) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLATFPUAA 2001).

“The MACC will not compromise with any party that tries to profit through corruption, money laundering, and smuggling, which cause losses to the country,” he said.

New Colours for 2025 Honda CB350RS, Price Remains at RM20,500

Boon Siew Honda has announced two new colourways for the 2025 Honda CB350RS.

The manufacturer calls the bike a “road sports” and “roadster” that blends classic styling and modern performance for daily commutes and long-distance touring. To us, although unglamourous, it is a “standard motorcycle” as all motorcycles back then were standards.

In any case, having tested the bike, we found it easy to live with, as it provided good handling characteristics, a relaxing power delivery, great comfort, and an engaging exhaust note. All at an affordable price.

Highlights

348cc, air-cooled, OHC, single-cylinder engine which turns out 20.8 hp (15.5 kW) at 5,500 RPM and 30 Nm at 3,000 RPM.
Engine power is directed through an assist & slipper clutch to ensure lighter clutch pulls while maintaining rear-wheel control during rapid downshifts.

ABS is standard for both front and rear brakes.
Providing a further layer of safety is the Honda Selectable Torque Control traction control feature.

The analogue display looks classic but combines digital integration, showing gear position, ECO indicator, fuel efficiency, and distance-to-empty.
Full LED lighting with a round headlight encased in a chrome bezel, paired with a timeless taillight silhouette.

The two new colours for the 2025 Honda CB350RS are Pearl Deep Ground Gray and Pearl Igneous Black. It will arrive at all Honda Big Wing dealerships nationwide estimated from 29th September onwards at RM20,500.00.

Boon Siew Honda offers two years or 20,000 manufacturing warranty, whichever comes first. For more information, please click https://hondabigbike.com.my/model/cb350rs/ or visit the nearest Honda Big Wing. Customers may also reach BSH via their toll-free number at 1-800-88-3993.

Photo gallery

Police are Hunting 20-odd Motorcyclists Who Surrounded and Damaged a Car

The police are now actively hunting for approximately 20 motorcyclists who acted violently, surrounding, punching, and kicking a Perodua Myvi in an incident. The recording had gone viral on social media.

In the harrowing incident near the Batu 13 Toll Plaza, Puchong, the driver of the car, a 52-year-old security guard, was forced to endure a fearful moment when his car was surrounded by the group of road thugs.

Serdang District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Muhamad Farid Ahmad, said the victim came forward to make a police report immediately after the incident, which occurred around 4 am.

“Police are now conducting an investigation to identify the actual cause of the incident.

“It is estimated that approximately 20 motorcyclists were involved in this case, and efforts to track down and arrest all of them are underway,” he said in a statement today.

According to him, the case is being investigated under Section 427 and Section 279 of the Penal Code. Section 427 of the Penal Code pertains to the offense of mischief that causes damage to property. Section 279 of the Penal Code, meanwhile, concerns driving recklessly or dangerously in a manner that endangers the safety of road users.

He said the police advise the public not to make any speculations that could jeopardize the investigation, besides calling for witnesses to come forward and provide information.

Through the 29-second recording, the car driven by the complainant was seen surrounded by a group of motorcyclists near the Batu 13 Toll Plaza.

In the recording, motorcycles were seen moving close to both sides and the front of the car, as if trying to surround and block the vehicle’s path.

One of the motorcyclists was also seen punching the driver’s side window before kicking the door on the same side, causing the driver to slow down the car to avoid a worse incident.

The situation clearly showed a tense atmosphere and a threat to the car driver, who was trapped in the middle of the group of motorcycles.

The Honeymoon is Over for Traffic Offenders – Warns Police

The Kuala Lumpur Police said the ‘honeymoon’ period for traffic offenders in the capital city has now ended, following a one-month advocacy program conducted by the Kuala Lumpur Police through Op Law Compliance (Op PUU).

Kuala Lumpur Police Chief, Datuk Fadil Marsus, said they will begin full enforcement action by issuing immediate summonses to stubborn and non-compliant road users starting October 1st. They will not compromise, given that the previous advocacy period seemed to have no profound effect on a large portion of the public.

“The statistics during the advocacy campaign, which began on September 6, are very concerning, with nearly 70,000 advocacy notices issued in focus areas around the capital.”

“This is what’s worrying; in less than a month, nearly 70,000 advocacy notices were given. This shows that many are aware they are committing offenses, but still defy and intentionally violate the rules,” he said when interviewed on the Selamat Pagi Malaysia program broadcast on TV1 today.

Among the most frequently detected offenses were causing traffic obstructions, such as double parking, stopping on white lines and pedestrian crossings, running red lights, and not wearing or improperly fastening helmet straps.

“This enforcement is not a ‘flash in the pan’; instead, it will be conducted continuously, 24 hours a day, throughout the year, across all of Kuala Lumpur.”

“All personnel from every district in Kuala Lumpur will be mobilized. This operation will not have an end date; it will continue indefinitely until we see a positive change in the public’s attitude,” he said.

Commenting on modern approaches, Fadil said they would continue to use the power of social media to expose traffic offenders to raise awareness and provide lessons to the public.

“We will use all social media platforms as much as possible. Let the message get through, and let those who are wrong know their actions are being watched. Perhaps through this method, a sense of shame and awareness will arise,” he emphasized.

He said the ultimate goal is to educate the public and change the culture of law compliance, starting with the most basic rules.

“We want to make the citizens of Kuala Lumpur an example, where our level of law compliance is on par with developed nations. It must start now, not tomorrow,” he said.

2025 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing 50th Anniversary Arrives in Malaysia

The Honda Gold Wing celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025 and the maker had launched the special edition colourway to celebrate it. And now, the 2025 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing 50th Anniversary has arrived in Malaysia.

The bike was formally launched by Boon Siew Honda (BSH) today. BSH also handed over the first units to their respective owners.

First launched in 1975 as the GL1000 flat-four, the Gold Wing has grown over the years to the current 1833cc flat-six. The last complete update was in 2018 which saw it gaining girder forks and Honda’s DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission).

Both the 2025 Gold Wing standard and Tour variants have received updates – including two new paint finishes influenced by models of the past. Amongst them is a combination of Eternal Gold and Bordeux Red Metallic, which draws inspiration from the 1988 GL1500 variant – with unique badging also marking the special birthday.

Apart from that, the exhaust system has an additional O2 sensor, and tweaking the ECU to make the 124.7hp engine meet the Euro5+ regulations. Buyers can choose between the manual transmission and DCT options.

Further nods to the milestone include a Gold Wing emblem on the key and seven-inch TFT display, which come complete with 50^th Anniversary and ‘Since 1975’ emblem.

BSH has priced the 2025 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing 50th Anniversary from RM222,888 and will be available at Honda Big Wing dealers nationwide.

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Honda GL1800 Gold Wing 50th Anniversary (2025)

Install Streetlights Along Dark Stretch – Court Tells PLUS

The Court of Appeal told Projek Lebuhraya Usahasama Bhd (PLUS) to install streetlights along dark stretches of the North-South Expressway, after upholding its liability over a fatal accident involving a motorcyclist.

A three-judge panel led by Datuk Ahmad Zaidi Ibrahim found that the concessionaire and its maintenance contractor, Projek Penyelenggaraan Lebuhraya Bhd (Propel), had failed to take reasonable steps to ensure road safety.

The court held that periodic patrols by PlusRonda every 45 to 50 minutes were inadequate, especially at night on poorly lit stretches where hazards could not be detected in time.

The ruling followed a 2018 accident near Taiping that saw motorcyclist Azizi Zakaria, 27,striking a wheel chock for trucks and trailers on the highway. The accident took Azizi’s life.

Azizi’s parents, Zakaria Hamid and Gayah Dochik, sued PLUS and Propel for negligence.

The Sessions Court had found the companies 80 per cent liable, with 20 per cent contributory negligence apportioned to Azizi.

His parents were awarded RM57,600 for loss of dependency and RM3,000 in special damages. The High Court later affirmed the liability and revised the dependency sum to RM500 per month based on evidence of Azizi’s monthly contribution to his family.

Faizah, who wrote the unanimous decision, said PLUS bore a statutory duty under the Federal Roads (Private Management) Act 1984 to maintain the expressway in good repair.

“It is our considered opinion that a reasonable course of action in the circumstances would be for PLUS to install street lighting at intervals of, for instance, 300 meters or another distance deemed appropriate, in accordance with established engineering practices.

“Furthermore, with the introduction of solar-powered streetlights, operational expenses are expected to be significantly reduced compared to those associated with conventionally powered lighting systems.

“We disagree with the arguments presented by PLUS and Propel that the establishment of PLUSRonda to patrol the 800km stretch of the highway constitutes the taking of all reasonable measures to ensure user safety.

“PLUSRonda patrols the highway in big vehicles. In an unlit stretch of the highway, with no streetlights, the PLUSRonda personnel will only be able to see what is on the road in front of their vehicle,” she said in her ground of judgment dated Sept 11.

The appellate court said PLUS’s duty to care at common law to the users of the highway to maintain the highway in good repair and condition is non-delegable.

The court added that although PLUS had delegated its duty to maintain and repair the highway to Propel, it remains liable for Propel’s negligence that results in damage or injury to the users of the highway.