Photo: Bernama
SEREMBAN: Driving schools have been warned not to get involved with illegal “kopi O” driving licence syndicates, as they may face immediate revocation of their operating licences.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said that corrupt activities during driving tests must be stopped because such actions endanger the lives of road users.
“Driving schools must not engage in corruption.
“If this issue is not curbed, young people will become victims.
“Our goal is to save lives.
“The public is also advised not to be easily deceived by ‘lesen terbang’ offers advertised on social media,” he said in his speech at RDS Driving Academy 10th anniversary celebrations here yesterday, reported Bernama.
Loke said the electronic driving test system (eTesting) is a proactive, integrity-driven measure introduced to combat corruption in the industry.
He called on driving schools to familiarise themselves with the system before its mandatory implementation in 2030.
“The ministry is committed to implementing eTesting to ensure a system with greater integrity.
“We have been aware of the issue of illegal driving licences for a long time. However, I see positive developments.
“Although it cannot be denied that some syndicates may still try to exploit the system, we will continue our efforts to eradicate corruption,” Loke said.
He said the ministry had received several applications from driving institutes for the implementation of eTesting since it was introduced in April.
The Road Transport Department is processing these applications, and the first batch will receive their approval letters soon, Loke said.
Experts have previously said that the e-Testing system is a step in the right direction in fighting corrupt practices.
Universiti Putra Malaysia Assoc Prof Dr Law Teik Hua said in March that the digital driving test system can reduce the potential for bias or unethical practices, such as bribery or favouritism.
