Amendments target repeat offenders, illegal racers, tonto syndicates
KUALA LUMPUR: A proposal to increase traffic fines from the current RM300 is among several amendments under the Road Transport Act to be tabled next week, says Anthony Loke.
The Transport Minister said the move was aimed at deterring road users from committing violations.
However, he said it would only apply to “serious and repetitive” offences such as those related to motor vehicle licences, driving licences, speed limits, vehicle inspections and violations of traffic signals and directions.
“We are proposing a transition period of at least two years before the new compound rates are enforced to allow the public sufficient time to adapt and to ensure a smooth implementation process.
“New provisions will also target illegal street racing and crack down on tonto syndicates (lookout informants) who tip off traffic offenders about ongoing enforcement operations.
“The first reading will be on Monday, followed by the second reading on the following day,” he said during a special media briefing yesterday.
Loke said the amendments are necessary as the transport sector and enforcement mechanisms are becoming increasingly digital, requiring the law to evolve accordingly.
“The last amendments to the Act were made in 2020,” he said.
Loke also noted that to reduce waiting time at police stations, there will be the introduction of e-police reporting.
The amendments will also provide clearer powers for the minister to regulate workshops, vehicle standards and service fees to improve safety and industry compliance.
In addition, Loke said a clearer legal framework involving micromobility vehicles such as e-scooters and e-bikes will also be tabled.
“The proposed amendments include new provisions like foreign vehicles with valid Vehicle Entry Permit and no outstanding summonses will be allowed to cross the border.
“Likewise, Malaysian vehicles with unpaid summonses can also be blocked from leaving another country,” he said, adding that once passed, it would be easier to utilise newer technologies like Automated Number Plate Recognition.
Loke said another amendment by year end will focus on compensation mechanism for victims of accidents involving drunk drivers, drug-positive drivers or reckless driving.
The minister added the proposed amendments have also received the support of opposition MPs who serve on the Parliamentary Special Select Committee.
Separately, Loke said the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) in Pulau Indah has attracted RM566mil in new investments, strengthening its role as a key logistics and trade hub.
He said the development reflects strong investor confidence in Malaysia’s industrial and logistics sector.
“PKFZ is becoming a smart, modern trade hub through digital systems such as the Free Zone Management System, Automated Gate Operation System, Digital Port Pass, AI surveillance and drone monitoring.
“A major part of the transformation is the ‘Single Window’ system, which streamlines trade processes like imports, exports and value-added activities under one platform.
“PKFZ has also reactivated 86% of previously unused commercial spaces by converting buildings into offices and worker accommodation,” he said during a working visit there.
Loke said Chinese investment in PKFZ continues to grow strongly with occupied space surpassing 3.18 million sq ft.
China remains PKFZ’s biggest import country and this reinforces the strong economic partnership between Malaysia and China, he added.
