Following transport minister Anthony Loke’s order on Christmas Eve, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) is investigating and auditing the vehicle companies involved in the fatal North-South Highway (PLUS) accident on the night of December 23.
JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said the investigation focuses on various safety aspects, particularly technical issues, and that the department is deeply concerned about the rise in fatal accidents involving commercial vehicles, according to Bernama.
“JPJ will enhance collaboration with the National Anti-Drug Agency to conduct drug abuse checks on drivers and review periodic inspection procedures for commercial vehicles performed by Puspakom or other appointed centres,” he said in a recent statement.
According to a separate Bernama report, police have recorded the statement of the 31-year old lorry driver whose detached tyre was the accident’s root cause.
Alor Gajah district police chief superintendent Ashari Abu Samah said the driver was found to be drug- and alcohol-free, and urged the vehicle owner whose dashcam captured the detached tyre to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Aedy Fadly said JPJ would also work closely with enforcement agencies such as the domestic trade and cost of living ministry and local authorities to inspect registered workshops and monitor illegal workshops suspected of renting equipment for vehicle inspection purposes.
He added that the department would also reassess and enhance training courses for commercial vehicle drivers, incorporating elements of compliance and technical knowledge before certificates are issued.
“All commercial vehicle drivers are urged to be responsible by always adhering to road regulations. 2025 will be designated as the year of enforcement, with zero tolerance for technical offences,” said Aedy Fadly.
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