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JEMENTAH assemblywoman Ng Kor Sim has expressed support for the government’s plan to crack down on overloaded lorries, saying she fully supports the need to uphold compliance with existing laws and regulations.
However, she noted that any decision to tighten enforcement on overloaded lorries must be made carefully and after considering all aspects, given its wide-ranging impact on both industry and the livelihood of ordinary Malaysians.
“Coming from the oil palm industry background myself, I have received numerous feedback from mill operators and transporters who face rising costs following the recent abrupt enforcement drive,” she stated.
“Since the announcement, oil millers have seen their operating costs rise by at least 20%. The same applies to other sectors, including construction, where stricter load limits have translated into higher transportation and operational expenses.
“This will inevitably have a trickle-down effect on the broader economy. When the cost of production and logistics goes up, the impact will be felt by consumers through higher prices of goods and services, adding further strain to the cost of living.”
Ng said the enforcement would also affect lorry drivers directly. As many drivers are paid based on the weight they carry, the majority of them saw their incomes significantly reduced now that loading limits are now strictly enforced.
“We must remember that a large number of lorry drivers come from the B40 group, and any sudden reduction in earnings will place tremendous pressure on their families,” she stressed.
“Upholding laws and regulations is a key component in any modern society and I am committed to this principle, especially when it comes to safety. But the reality is that laws and regulations governing vehicle load limits have been in place largely unchanged for six decades and may not reflect current technological advancements.
“Today, lorries are built stronger, equipped with better safety systems, and capable of carrying heavier loads more safely. Furthermore, studies have shown that most road accidents involve negligence by smaller vehicles or other road users.”
Ng went on to urge the authorities, including the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to relook at the current approach, taking into account the well-being of both industry players and those in the medium and lower-income groups.
She said a review of existing laws and regulations to reflect current realities and technological progress would be a welcome step, while a grace period or transitional arrangement could also be considered to allow businesses and drivers time to adapt.
“This is also in line with Transport Minister Anthony Loke’s recent pledge to amend laws so that consignors and consignees involved in overloading lorries will also be penalised, not just drivers and transport companies,” she continued.
“On my part, I will bring up these concerns to the attention of the relevant parties, including the Transport Minister, to ensure that any implementation strikes the right balance between safety, economic stability, and fairness to all stakeholders, especially those from the lower income groups and small businesses.”
Speaking in Dewan Rakyat last Monday (Oct 27), Loke said the government’s firm stand on curbing overloaded lorries will not be swayed by industry pressure or cost concerns.
He said the Transport Ministry’s current crackdown on overloaded lorries will continue despite complaints from several industry groups who have warned that the move could delay projects and increase transportation expenses.
He further pointed out then whenever the government steps up enforcement, pushback from the industry is expected but what matters most is the safety of road users and the protection of public infrastructure. ‒ Nov 6, 2025
Main image: Bernama
The post Jementah rep: “Crackdown on overloaded lorries must adopt balanced approach” first appeared on Focus Malaysia.
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