The Malaysian Road Transport Department (JPJ) has announced that they will be conducting an operation to crack down on companies and individuals who are leasing out their vehicles to foreigners without valid driving licenses. This decision comes after a recent incident where a foreigner was caught driving a rented car without a valid license during an Integrated Operation conducted by the authorities.
According to JPJ Enforcement director Muhammad Kifli Ma Hasan, the foreigner was driving a rented Honda City with two others in the car, heading towards Penang. The authorities will be identifying the owner of the car and taking action if it is found that the vehicle was rented out to the foreigner without proper documentation.
The operation, which took place at the Jalan Duta Toll Plaza, involved various agencies including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM), the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), and the Department of Environment (DOE). This collaborative effort aims to address the increasing number of road accidents involving foreigners, which has been causing public concern.
Muhammad Kifli emphasized that JPJ will continue to carry out operations to tackle this issue and ensure road safety for all motorists. Kuala Lumpur JPJ director Mohd Zaki Ismail revealed that during the operation, a total of 2,512 vehicles were inspected, with 21 foreigners from Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nepal, and India being checked. Seven individuals, including an Indonesian woman, were arrested for driving without a valid license.
In addition, 416 summons notices were issued, and 11 vehicles were seized during the operation. Most of the motorists faced penalties for driving or riding without a valid license. The presence of Road Transport Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Jana Santhiran Muniayan and JPJ Director General Datuk Rospiagos Taha highlighted the seriousness of the issue and the importance of enforcing regulations to ensure road safety.
Overall, the operation conducted by JPJ and other relevant agencies serves as a reminder to companies and individuals to adhere to regulations when leasing out vehicles to foreigners. It also underscores the importance of having a valid driving license to operate a vehicle legally and safely on Malaysian roads. By cracking down on this issue, the authorities are taking proactive steps to prevent road accidents and protect the well-being of all road users.