Akmal Azhar
In Seremban, enforcement officers from the Road Transport Department (JPJ) have seized five luxury cars in an ongoing effort to clamp down on motorists who neglect to pay road tax and renew insurance. These high-value vehicles, each worth hundreds of thousands of ringgit, were taken off the road as part of a state-wide crackdown by Negeri Sembilan JPJ.
Over 10,000 Summonses Issued This Year
JPJ Negeri Sembilan director Hanif Yusabra Yusuf revealed that from January to July 2025, more than 10,400 summonses were issued to motorists in the state for expired road tax. Among them, 7,812 vehicles were found to have no valid insurance. The department also recorded 10 luxury vehicles seized so far this year, a clear sign that even premium car owners are not immune to enforcement.
Excuses Dismissed by Authorities
When stopped by officers, some drivers claimed they had simply forgotten to renew their documents. However, Hanif stressed that such excuses are unacceptable, especially in cases where cars had not been taxed or insured for over two years. He emphasized that owning a vehicle comes with responsibilities, and those who fail to comply will face legal consequences.
Legal Provisions Under Road Transport Act
Offenders may be charged under Section 23(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for expired road tax and Section 90(1) for lacking insurance coverage. Vehicles seized under these offences are held at the JPJ depot until owners resolve the case in court and settle all outstanding payments, including compounds and renewals.
Luxury Owners Prefer Paying Fines Over Compliance
There is growing concern that some luxury car owners intentionally skip paying for road tax and insurance, opting instead to pay a RM300 compound, which they see as a cheaper alternative. This has raised alarm over a loophole that may be exploited by affluent motorists who can afford the risk of fines over the cost of compliance.
Similar Cases Reported in Other States
Earlier in August, a separate operation in Shah Alam saw four luxury cars—including a Mercedes-Benz and Toyota Vellfire—impounded for similar violations. One of the vehicles had been driven by a foreign national without insurance for over a year. The case has drawn further attention to the widespread nature of the issue.
Transport Minister Responds to Public Concern
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook has reiterated that compound fines do not exempt offenders from renewing their road tax and insurance. He emphasized that no impounded vehicle will be released until full compliance is met. While acknowledging the rising number of cases, the minister stated that any increase in compound fines would require amendments to existing legislation.
Zakirin
