“Recently, the Government has announced that it would crack down on overloaded lorries. As a lawmaker, I fully support the need to uphold compliance with existing laws and regulations. However, 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 livelihoods of ordinary Malaysians,” shared Ng Kor Sim, State Assemblywoman for Jementah state, Johor.
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. 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.
The enforcement also affects lorry drivers directly. Many drivers are paid based on the weight they carry, and with loading limits now strictly enforced, the majority of them saw their incomes reduced significantly. 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.
Upholding laws and regulations are 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.
Therefore, I urge the authorities, including the Road Transport Department (RTD) 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.
A review of existing laws and regulations to reflect current realities and technological progress would be a welcome step. 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.
“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,” she shared.
