THE Transport Ministry is seeking to amend laws to combat the practice of tyre rentals to manipulate vehicle inspections at computerised testing centres, says Deputy Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah.
He said heavy vehicles are allowed to fit new tyres before an inspection.
However, he stressed that swapping out the new tyres with old, non-compliant ones after passing the test is unacceptable.
“The Transport Ministry is aware of concerns regarding syndicates offering tyre or spare part rentals to manipulate vehicle inspection approvals at Puspakom,” Hasbi told the House yesterday.
“This is an irresponsible act that compromises road safety and the integrity of the vehicle inspection system.”
The Road Transport Department has acknowledged that so-called “cosmetic agents” are offering new tyres and spare parts for rent to heavy vehicle owners who want to pass vehicle inspections.
Once the inspections are over, these parts are returned and the old parts are refitted on the vehicles.
Hasbi revealed that last year, the ministry worked closely with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to address misconduct among Puspakom inspectors.
“Individuals suspected of wrongdoing have been detained for questioning under the MACC Act 2009, and 20 inspection officers were investigated, of which 13 were suspended from duty,” he said.
Looking ahead, the Transport Ministry, in collaboration with the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research, will explore the use of advanced technology to detect and prevent tyre rental scams and enhance the integrity of vehicle inspections.
