PSV licences only suspended if serious offence confirmed, says Transport Minister
Anthony Loke said that this approach is designed to ensure road user safety while upholding the driver's right to a fair and comprehensive investigation.
'A PSV licence won't be immediately suspended just because a driver was involved in an accident.
'A full investigation will be carried out first. If the driver is found to have committed a serious offence, such as reckless driving, only then will their PSV licence be suspended,' he told reporters after the East Coast Rail Link's (ECRL) Genting Tunnel breakthrough ceremony here on Saturday (July 12).
Loke added that, previously, disciplinary action could only be taken after a court verdict — a process that could take years.
He said that during the period, drivers who posed potential risk were still allowed on the roads.
'We can't allow a driver involved in a serious accident to continue operating a bus for three or four years just because the case is pending in court.
'That would endanger passengers' lives. This is why we're using existing Road Transport Department (JPJ) powers to act earlier, though still based on proper investigations,' he added.
Loke acknowledged differing views from drivers' associations and bus companies, but stressed that passenger safety must always take precedence.
'Public sentiment calls for stricter and faster action against reckless drivers, and that's what we're prioritising,' said Loke, adding that bus operators would also face consequences if found neglecting safety procedures or failing to adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Previously, it was reported that the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) had slammed the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry for requiring tour companies to submit a report within 24 hours of any accident, or risk having their business licence cancelled.
MATTA president Nigel Wong said the move was an 'extreme' measure introduced without consulting industry players.
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