Penang Seizes 107 Vehicles in Operation Against Foreign Drivers

Penang's Road Transport Department (JPJ) has confiscated 107 vehicles, including luxury models like the Toyota Alphard and Land Cruiser, as part of a special operation targeting foreign drivers. The "Ops Khas Pemandu Warga Asing" (PeWA), which began on June 16, aimed to address violations by non-citizens driving in the state.

According to Penang JPJ Director Zulkifly Ismail, a review of the seized vehicles revealed that many of the foreign owners and drivers, particularly professionals and businesspeople from China and Myanmar, lacked valid driving licenses. Some vehicles were also found to be registered under local citizens' names, suggesting attempts to circumvent regulations.

"We will take action if it is proven they do not have a driving license. Furthermore, any local owners involved, including those who rent out their vehicles to foreigners, will also face action," Zulkifly stated. He emphasized that both the driver and the owner could be penalized under the Road Transport Act 1987.

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We will take action if it is proven they do not have a driving license. Furthermore, any local owners involved, including those who rent out their vehicles to foreigners, will also face action.

The operation, which concluded today, involved the inspection of 8,458 vehicles. Of these, 317 were penalized, and 587 summonses were issued to foreign nationals for a range of offenses. JPJ statistics indicate a significant increase in vehicle seizures and summonses issued to foreign drivers this year compared to the previous year, raising concerns about road safety.

Zulkifly highlighted the seriousness of the rising number of seizures and summonses, noting the potential risks posed to other road users. He affirmed that operations like PeWA are conducted continuously to combat the activities of unqualified foreign drivers. The JPJ aims to ensure that all drivers operating motor vehicles possess valid licenses and adhere to traffic laws.

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we do such operations like this (PeWA) continuously and all the time in an effort to eradicate the activities of foreign drivers who drive or operate motor vehicles without qualifications or valid driving licenses.