On 20 December 2024, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Traders Association (MCVTA) held a pivotal meeting at JPJ Headquarters in Putrajaya. The meeting aimed to address pressing challenges in the commercial vehicle (CV) industry and foster collaboration for improved policies and streamlined operations.
Key Highlights from the Meeting
Enhanced Collaboration and Communication
Both parties acknowledged the need for more frequent and meaningful consultations to prevent unilateral policy decisions. A proposal for quarterly meetings was positively received, promising continuous engagement from 2025 onward.
Streamlining Regulatory Processes
Discussions covered duplications and inconsistencies in regulatory procedures:
JPJ announced progress on integrating systems like APAD iSPKP and mySIKAP, expected to go live by February 2025, reducing delays in vehicle permit endorsements.
Weight Certificates will now be issued simultaneously with VTA approvals, eliminating redundant processes.
Flexibility in Modifications Approval
MCVTA proposed simpler approval mechanisms for standard modifications and installations on commercial vehicles. JPJ has agreed to review these suggestions to reduce paperwork and expedite approvals.
Addressing Inspection Delays
Persistent delays in vehicle inspections by PUSPAKOM and JKKP were discussed:
1. MCVTA urged JPJ to consider mandating a one-stop inspection service or authorizing OEM certifications for PMA inspections.
JPJ acknowledged the challenges and review the current scenario with PUSPAKOM.
Improving Axle Load Limits
The need for standardized axle load limits across federal roads was emphasized. JPJ encouraged MCVTA to prepare a formal proposal with supporting justifications for policy revisions.
Digital Transformation Initiatives
MCVTA proposed a platform for digital ownership transfers of commercial vehicles. JPJ welcomed the initiative, highlighting the potential for enhanced efficiency and transparency.
Fuel Efficiency Standards
MCVTA expressed support for implementing a national fuel efficiency standard.
MCVTA hopes for a more flexible approach to the phasing out of the green engine status through the use of the EURO fuel standards (from EURO 2 to EURO 4).
Review processes and procedures related to applications for Vehicle Plans
MCVTA opined that the current policy requirement relating to vehicle plans submission and approval is onerous and burdensome. The current practices need review and reform to enhance productivity and competitiveness, as well as to encourage innovation in our commercial vehicles industry.
JPJ has eliminated the requirement for plan submissions to PUSPAKOM. Plans are now submitted directly to the Automotive Division of JPJ, which significantly shortens the processing time to 5 days from the date of submission.
MCVTA proposed JPJ to consider the setting of “Standards” for Malaysian “design-and-build” vehicles bodies/semi-trailers; as with Standards, we could employ a more “flexible and easy compliable” of vehicle plans by Stakeholders.
These standards, comprising a set of criteria for the CV industry relating to the standard functioning and carrying out of operations in CV Bodies / Trailers production, would ensure orderly and systematic formulation, adoption, and application of best practices in the CV industry, enhancing operational efficiency and consistency across the industry.
MCVTA is prepared to work with JPJ in consultations with SIRIM and MIROS to create our Malaysian Standards for Vehicle Designs and their Vehicle Body Constructions plan incompliance with homologations requirements.
JPJ welcome such considerations and propose the MCVTA to provide a working proposal on this.
Conclusion
The meeting concluded with an optimistic outlook for improved cooperation between JPJ and MCVTA. By addressing critical industry challenges and prioritizing digital transformation, both parties aim to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of Malaysia's commercial vehicle sector.
Looking Ahead
The next steps include implementing the agreed-upon action points and conducting regular reviews to ensure continuous improvement. Stakeholders can expect a more inclusive and responsive approach to policy-making in the coming years.
Hii.