JPJ Seizes Lorry in Jerlun Over Expired Road Tax

The Kedah Road Transport Department (JPJ) seized a commercial lorry in Jerlun after discovering its motor vehicle licence had expired since 1997, along with invalid insurance, an expired Puspakom inspection, and an unlicensed driver. The action underscores JPJ’s intensified enforcement against non-compliant commercial vehicles.

The Kedah Road Transport Department (JPJ) intercepted a commercial lorry during an enforcement operation in Jerlun, uncovering a series of critical violations that led to its seizure. This lapse in compliance was the most glaring issue, though additional infractions included the absence of valid insurance, an expired Puspakom safety inspection, and the driver operating without a Goods Driving Licence (GDL).

The Lorry’s Violations and Immediate Consequences

Enforcement officers flagged the lorry during a routine operation, revealing a combination of legal and safety breaches. The vehicle’s LKM, which had not been renewed since 1997, violated regulations requiring valid road tax for public road use. JPJ emphasized that such violations pose hazards to other road users, justifying the seizure to remove non-compliant vehicles from circulation.

The driver’s absence of a Goods Driving Licence (GDL) further compounded the legal breaches. JPJ Kedah stated the seizure was carried out to prevent vehicles that do not meet eligibility and documentation requirements from continuing to operate on public roads.

JPJ’s Enforcement Statement and Broader Crackdown

JPJ Kedah stated the seizure was part of its broader strategy to address non-compliance among commercial vehicles. The agency’s actions align with a national crackdown on heavy and commercial transport, targeting repeat offenders who evade routine checks. This operation reflects a shift toward stricter oversight across Peninsular Malaysia.

The lorry’s case highlights the department’s focus on ensuring heavy vehicles meet safety and legal standards.

Unresolved Questions and Industry Implications

The case also underscores the potential consequences of prolonged non-compliance. A vehicle operating without valid documentation for nearly 30 years raises questions about how such a violation went unchecked. While the sources do not specify whether the lorry’s owner or driver faced additional penalties beyond the seizure, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with neglecting regulatory obligations.

JPJ Seizes Lorry in Jerlun Over Expired Road Tax — Photo: SAYS

Despite the details provided, several questions remain unanswered. The sources do not clarify whether the lorry’s owner was previously notified of the expired LKM or if this was a first-time violation. Additionally, the outcome of the seized vehicle—whether it will be fined, dismantled, or repurposed—remains unspecified. These gaps highlight the need for further transparency from JPJ regarding enforcement follow-up actions.

For commercial vehicle operators, the case reinforces the importance of adhering to compliance requirements. The combination of expired road tax, insurance, and inspections creates a high-risk scenario, not only for the vehicle’s operator but for other road users.

Cover image via JPJ Negeri Kedah Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.