34 Malaysians Charged Since 2023 for Vehicle Offences Involving Foreigners; Fines Total RM34,000

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) in Kelantan has intensified its crackdown on illegal vehicle transactions and improper usage involving foreign nationals, revealing that a total of 34 Malaysian individuals have been charged in court since 2023 for related offences, with accumulated fines amounting to RM34,000. The enforcement drive is part of a wider effort to close legal loopholes, improve road safety, and ensure full compliance with national transport regulations.

Kelantan JPJ director Mohd Misuari Abdullah shared the latest statistics and enforcement details in a statement reported by Bernama, noting that the department is taking a firm and comprehensive approach to address activities that have long posed challenges to authorities along the state’s border regions.

Expanded Enforcement Powers and Operations

Misuari confirmed that JPJ officers are equipped with strong legal authority to take immediate action when necessary. “Our personnel are empowered to conduct warrantless arrests under Section 112 of the Road Transport Act 1987, specifically in cases involving foreign drivers and vehicles being used in violation of the law,” he explained.

For the first six months of 2026, covering the period January to June, the department ran two major enforcement initiatives: Ops Pemandu Warga Asing (PEWA), which specifically targets foreign motorists, and a joint integrated operation that also includes drug screening and safety checks for commercial vehicle operators. During these operations, officers issued a total of 749 summonses for various traffic and regulatory violations.

Vehicles Impounded and Offences Recorded

The enforcement efforts also led to official action being taken against 188 vehicles, of which 176 were fully impounded and brought to designated holding yards for further inspection and verification.

The data shows a clear pattern of recurring violations, with the most common offences recorded as follows:

• Driving without a valid Competent Driving Licence (CDL): 350 cases — the highest number of violations, indicating many motorists operate without legal authorisation.

• Expired road tax: 144 cases — vehicles being used beyond the validity of their registration.

• No valid insurance coverage: 142 cases — a serious risk, as any accident involving such vehicles leaves victims without financial protection.

• Misuse of road tax documents: 9 cases — including altering or transferring documents improperly.

• Other technical and regulatory violations: 104 cases — covering issues such as expired inspection certificates, unapproved modifications, and incomplete documentation.

Crackdown on Unlawful Sales and Transfers

In a significant expansion of enforcement scope, Misuari warned that action will no longer be limited only to drivers on the road. The department will now actively monitor business premises, particularly motorcycle dealers and vehicle sellers across the state.

“We will take firm action against any shop or trader found selling vehicles, especially motorcycles, which are the most commonly involved in these cases to foreign nationals without completing the official ownership transfer process,” he stated.

This illegal practice has become a growing concern: vehicles remain registered under the name of a Malaysian owner, but are handed over to foreigners who often do not hold valid local licences, insurance, or proper documentation. Under the law, the original registered owner remains fully liable for any summonses, fines, accidents, or even criminal activities committed using that vehicle, creating a legal and financial burden for many who are unaware of the risks.

Protecting the Public and Strengthening Compliance

Misuari emphasised that these measures are not only about enforcing rules but also about protecting the interests of all road users and ensuring public safety.

“Foreign nationals who wish to drive in Malaysia must follow the correct legal procedures, obtain the appropriate permits or international driving documents, and ensure their vehicles are properly registered, taxed, and insured. Similarly, Malaysian vehicle owners and business operators must understand that they cannot simply hand over their vehicles to others without completing the transfer; doing so is a violation of the law and puts everyone at risk,” he added.

JPJ Kelantan has also issued a reminder to the public to be more vigilant. Anyone looking to sell or dispose of a vehicle is advised to complete the transfer process immediately at the nearest JPJ office, and to avoid entering into informal or verbal agreements that leave them as the registered owner.

As enforcement continues throughout the second half of 2026, the department has pledged to maintain strict oversight, with the goal of reducing violations, closing loopholes, and ensuring that all vehicles operating on Kelantan’s roads, regardless of who is driving them, meet legal and safety standards.