KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has conducted a statewide enforcement drive in conjunction with World Ozone Day 2025, screening diesel vehicles to curb excessive emissions and checking on improper handling of ozone-depleting substances.
State Environment Department (DOE) director Nor Rashidah Mohd Ghazali said the exercise was part of the nationwide Operasi Gerak Kebangsaan Kenderaan Motor or Ops Gerak, launched earlier this month in Kuching.
"This operation is to ensure that motor vehicles in Sabah comply with smoke emission limits, noise regulations, and the proper handling of ozone-depleting substances," she told a press conference in Taman Awam Teluk Likas on Monday (Dec 8).
The Sabah-level checks began on Friday (Dec 5) at Jalan UMS Likas, focusing on motorcycle noise, before continuing on Monday at Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens near Taman Awam Likas for diesel smoke inspections.
A total of 40 diesel vehicles were inspected, with four found to have exceeded allowable black smoke limits.
Noise checks on 56 motorcycles identified six that did not comply with regulations.
DOE issued seven compound notices and five instruction notices following the non-compliance findings.
Police also issued 23 compound notices for various traffic offences, while the Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued 80 notices.
The National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) screened 30 drivers, with all testing negative for drug abuse.
Nor Rashidah said the drive reflected Sabah DOE’s continuous enforcement efforts throughout the year.
She said that from January to November, DOE inspected 988 diesel vehicles through 22 static operations, conducted motorcycle noise checks, monitored major routes using recording and video surveillance, and audited premises handling air-conditioning systems for competency and proper refrigerant recovery.
Inspections were also carried out on diesel fleet operators to ensure regular servicing and smoke testing, she added.
She reminded all vehicle owners, particularly those operating diesel-powered commercial fleets, to prioritise proper engine maintenance.
"Engines must be serviced regularly and kept in good condition. Use quality lubricants and ensure that the exhaust system, catalytic converter and other components function well.
"For motorcycles, avoid illegal modifications that increase noise, and take seriously any notice issued by the department," she said.
She also encouraged the public to report vehicles that emit excessive fumes.
"Provide the vehicle number to DOE for further action," she said.
World Ozone Day falls on Sept 16 each year, commemorating the day on which nations signed the Montreal Protocol in 1987. It has been observed worldwide since 1994.
This year's theme is "From science to global action".
