In a resolute stance, Transport Minister Anthony Loke affirmed that the legal actions taken against lorry and trailer drivers who commit road offenses in Malaysia are already sufficiently stringent. He dismissed any notion that the government was lenient in dealing with errant drivers, emphasizing that even industry operators recognized the severity of the penalties in place.
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Loke highlighted that rigorous enforcement, particularly against lorries carrying excessive loads, is consistently conducted by the Road Transport Department (JPJ). Addressing public concerns arising from recent accidents, he assured continued monitoring and proactive measures. Contrary to some perceptions of leniency, Loke underlined that existing regulations encompass robust actions and laws. Offending drivers not only face fines but also the possibility of having their vehicles impounded and forfeited.
The Ministry of Transport, Loke asserted, maintains a commitment to strike a balance between industry requirements and road safety, adopting a comprehensive approach. Regarding the Career@Transportation Programme, he announced over 2,000 job opportunities within the transportation sector, spanning air, land, and maritime domains. Candidates with various qualifications, including Bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia, and skills certificates, stand to benefit from this two-day program hosted at Aeon Nilai.
Loke underscored the initiative’s aim to introduce the public to transportation sector job prospects, particularly the pressing need for more bus and train drivers in the Klang Valley region. He added that efforts are being made to enhance the competence of bus drivers, offering attractive allowances and salaries to attract talent. A multitude of prominent companies, such as Prasarana Malaysia Bhd, Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad, Malaysia Rail Link, Malaysia Airports Holding Berhad, Air Asia, Batik Air, MYAirline Sdn Bhd, Ground Team Red, and Malaysia Aviation Group, are actively participating in the program.