Local News Archives

Allianz – BikesRepublic.com Motorcycle of the Year Awards 2025 – The First Of Its Kind!

There are motorcycles of the year awards, and the there is the Allianz – BikesRepublic.com Motorcycle of the Year Awards 2025.

Boasting 15 distinct categories for motorcycles and 1 for service providers, it is the most comprehensive motorcycle exclusive award ever conceived in Malaysia. The awards is supported by Allianz Malaysia Berhad, and organised by us at BikesRepublic.com in collaboration with DSF.com.

Each nominated motorcycle was fully tested by a panel consisting of veteran members of the media, as well as veteran hardcore bikers and casual bikers.

The choice of panel members was made to provide a balanced review to benefit motorcycle buyers with a wide range of riding and technical skills through real-world-based information. Too many times have we seen buyers regretting their decisions in buying their motorcycles after following the review of a particular type of rider who is more ‘in tune’ with a different type of motorcycle. Thus the panel of judges include Datuk Capt. Nik Huzlan and Jehan Miskin.

To ensure neutrality, no fee was levied. In other words, there was and is no charge to participate, use of the event’s logo in the participants’ marketing communication material, sponsorship or marketing fee to the winners post event. Additionally, there is no fee to attend the gala dinner. Even the parking is free!

The Allianz – BikesRepublic.com Motorcycle of the Year Awards 2025 gala dinner will be held this week, so stay tuned for the winners list.

Schizophrenic Driver Drove Round and Round Hundreds of Times

A driver who circled his car hundreds of times around a roundabout in Kluang, Johor, has been confirmed to be suffering from schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that affects how a patient thinks, feels, and behaves. They may have difficulty distinguishing between reality and their own thoughts or imagination. Among the symptoms are hearing ‘commands’ or ‘conversations’ with non-existent people. (Similar to the movie The Sixth Sense.)

Kluang District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Bahrin Mohd Noh, said the car was driven by a man in his 50s with a valid B2 and D driving license until 2027.

However, he stated that the car belongs to the driver’s older brother.

“The driver had previously received treatment at Hospital Permai, Johor Bahru, in 2020 and 2021 for mental illness.

“Recently, he has been receiving treatment at Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom, Kluang, for schizophrenia.

“The patient is still undergoing treatment at the PSY Clinic and has a treatment card,” he said.

Earlier, he mentioned that the police received a report regarding the incident at 8:20 PM the previous night.

“The vehicle was successfully stopped by police officers about 10 minutes later. No accidents or injuries were reported,” he said.

At the same time, Bahrin advised the family not to allow the man to leave the house without family members and to prohibit him from driving.

A 57-second video went viral, showing a Perodua Axia driver allegedly driving around the Mahkota Roundabout here hundreds of times from morning until night.

The video clearly shows the car circling while flashing emergency hazard lights.

2025 Kawasaki ZX-6R Handed over to First 100 Customers

MODENAS organised an event to handover the 2025 Kawasaki ZX-6R to the first 100 owners in the country today.

The event was held at the Sepang International Circuit, giving the owners their first feel of their bikes in its natural habitat.

The day kicked off with registrations and interviews with several owners. Next, a convoy consisting of the owners were guided around the track. However, perhaps the true highlight of the day was an exclusive track day for the media and owners who had brought their race suits along.

From the press release:

Motosikal & Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (“MODENAS”), a subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Berhad (“DRB-HICOM”) rolled out the red carpet, or more accurately the racetrack, for the first 100 proud owners of the brand-new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R at Paddock 1, Sepang International Circuit. With 350 excited attendees including Kawasaki dealers, die-hard fans and the media, it wasn’t just a handover — it was a full-throttle celebration!

Leading the festivities was Yusaku Kashiwagi, Chief Marketing Officer of MODENAS, who personally handed over the keys and welcomed new owners to the Kawasaki family. “This is not just a bike delivery. This is the moment Kawasaki is fulfilling the passion of its fans who love performance and pure adrenaline. The Ninja ZX-6R is built for those who crave speed and precision, and today, our customers get to experience that firsthand on the legendary Sepang track,” said Kashiwagi.

And experience it they did! The new owners wasted no time revving up their engines and hitting the track for their first exhilarating ride on their brand-new supersport machines. Adding to the thrill, the media was also treated to exclusive test rides on the Sepang circuit.

The demand for the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has been nothing short of phenomenal. When the pre-booking campaign kicked off in November 2024, MODENAS initially expected to secure 50 units. However, due to overwhelming demand, the number of units was doubled to 100 units — effectively selling out the first and second batches of deliveries in record time!

So, what makes the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R such a game-changer? Let’s talk specs! Powered by a 636cc inline-four engine, this beast delivers heart-racing performance with smooth acceleration and torque. It comes packed with advanced electronics, including a quick shifter, three-mode traction control, and multiple power modes to match any rider’s style. The Showa Separate Function Big Piston Forks ensure razor-sharp handling, while the 4.3” TFT dash with smartphone connectivity keeps you informed and in control, no matter where you ride.

And here’s the best part — MODENAS is offering the latest 2024 model at an unbeatable price of RM59,900, a massive drop from the previous 2018 model RM79,900 price tag thanks to the bike now being assembled locally in its plant in Gurun, Kedah. That’s power, performance, and value all wrapped into one thrilling package!

“This model is built for the track, but it’s also ready to dominate the streets. At this price point, the Ninja ZX-6R is the ultimate supersport machine for riders who want the best of both worlds,” Kashiwagi added.

With cutting-edge features, an aggressive design, and an unbeatable price, the Ninja ZX-6R is ready to redefine the mid-weight supersport category. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or looking for your next adrenaline rush, this machine is built to thrill.

Prices of Kapchais to Hike 20 Percent Next Year?

The prices of kapchais may go up as much as 20 percent from next year.

Motorcycle manufacturers and dealers say buyers will be affected by inevitable price hikes should the revised open market value (OMV) for vehicles is implemented.

The Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) said in January the implementation of the revised OMV had been deferred once again after its expiration on Dec 31, 2024.

The OMV excise duty revision – officially known as the Excise (Determination of Value of Locally Manufactured Goods for the Purpose of Levying Excise Duty) Regulations 2019 or “OMV 402” – is now set to take effect in January 2026.

OMV 402 was originally scheduled to take effect in 2020, but the Covid-19 pandemic had the Finance Ministry putting it on hold until 2021. It was deferred again for 2021. MAA lobbied the government to defer OMV 402 and was granted a two-year extension until 31 December 2024.

The revised regulations OMV calculation stated that the profit and general expenses incurred or accounted in the manufacture of a vehicle, plus also of its sale value.

This revision leads to higher the taxable value of vehicles, resulting in higher prices.

The Motorcycle and Scooter Assemblers and Distributors Association of Malaysia (MASAAM) and the Malaysian Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA) raised concerns that manufacturers may struggle to fully absorb the increased duties.

This will potentially drive up motorcycle prices by 10 per cent to 20 per cent, depending on the models, they claimed. As such, kapchais currently priced at RM10,000 could cost between RM11,000 and RM12,000 after the revision.

This is not good news, given that the Malaysia motorcycle market is ‘soft’ lately. According to the Motor Cycle Data website which tracks the number of motorcycles that were actually delivered to buyers, Malaysia saw a -19.9% drop in 2024 compared to the 2022 record year.

More than 107,000 Summonses Issued in Chinese New Year Special Operations 2025

The Road Transport Department Malaysia (JPJ) issued more than 107,000 summonses during the Chinese New Year Special Operation, which ran from 20 January to 10 February.

Offenses related to vehicle licensing, driver licensing, and technical violations were among the highest recorded. JPJ Director-General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli stated that during this period, the department issued 107,014 notices for various offenses involving vehicles and drivers, following inspections of 429,423 vehicles nationwide.

Additionally, 724 vehicles were seized for various offenses, including no insurance, invalid road tax, and vehicles driven by foreigners without valid licenses.

“JPJ(P) 22 notices were issued for offenses such as expired Motor Vehicle Licenses (LKM) and no insurance coverage (29,994); driver licensing offenses, including no driving license and expired driving licenses (20,414); and technical offenses such as bald tires and faulty brakes (15,610).

Furthermore, 9,052 notices were issued for other offenses, including major offenses (3,994) and goods vehicle offenses (3,161).

“For public service vehicle (bus) offenses, 241 notices were issued, and 140 notices were issued for failure to comply with the goods vehicle driving ban,” he said.

The integrated operation also involved collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), and PLUS Malaysia.

Elaborating further, Aedy stated that technical offenses such as tire and brake issues are common in every operation, and he reminded all road users, vehicle owners, and company vehicle owners to regularly inspect their vehicles.

The operation also enforced a four-day goods vehicle driving ban on 27 January (before the festive period) and 1-2 February (after the festive period).

“JPJ detected goods vehicles that failed to comply with the ban, issuing 140 notices and detaining 21 vehicles under Section 59 of the Road Transport Act 1987,” he said.

However, the number of summonses issued during the 2025 Chinese New Year Special Operation showed a decrease compared to the previous year’s 207,127 notices.

“These statistics indicate an improvement in efforts to reduce road accident rates and fatalities through enforcement measures,” he added.

More than 20 Roads to be Closed for Thaipusam 2025

More than 20 roads around the capital will be closed and diverted to facilitate smooth traffic in conjunction with the Thaipusam celebrations next Tuesday.

Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa said the Chariot Parade ceremony will be held this Sunday, starting from the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple on Jalan Tun H.S. Lee at 9pm.

“The parade is expected to end at 4pm, next Monday at the Sri Subramaniar Temple, Batu Caves, Selangor. The return parade will start at 3pm, next Wednesday via the same route,” he said in a statement, here, today.

He said that to facilitate the movement of the parade, several main roads and related routes around the city centre will be closed and diverted.

The route involved for the parade involves Jalan Tun H.S. Lee – Jalan Sultan – Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock – Jalan Pudu – Jalan Tun Perak – Jalan Lebuh Ampang-Jalan Ampang -Jalan Munshi Abdullah – Jalan Dang Wangi – Jalan Raja Laut – Jalan Belia – Jalan Sri Amar – Jalan Raja Laut – Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah – Jalan Tun Razak (U- turn) – Jalan Tun Razak – Sultan Azlan Shah.

“Jalan Ipoh Lama (Batu 5) – Jalan Kampung Batu – Jalan Kepong Baru – Bulatan Ipoh – Jalan Ipoh (KL) (opposite direction) – Batu Caves Bulatan (opposite direction from MRR2) – MRR2 exit – Batu Caves (via opposite lanes and special crossings),” he said

He said the police advised road users, especially residents of the capital, to plan their journeys and avoid using the routes affected by closures and diversions. According to him, the public is also advised to obey the instructions of police officers on duty to ensure smooth traffic.

Ban on Heavy Vehicles on Highways Extended to Several other Highways

The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) has extended the ban on heavy vehicles using highways during peak hours on several highways around the Klang Valley starting February 19.

This involves the North-South Expressway (Plus), the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), the North-South Central Link Expressway (Elite) and the Duta-Ulu Klang Expressway (Duke).

LLM Director-General Datuk Sazali Harun said the implementation of the ban was gazetted by the government on October 21 last year and is one of the initiatives under the Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Congestion (JKMKKJR).

“It is aimed at smoothing traffic movement in the Klang Valley area and the Kuala Lumpur city centre.

“The heavy vehicles involved in the implementation of this ban are Class 2 motor vehicles, which are vehicles with two axles and six wheels except buses.

“Also affected are Class 3 motor vehicles, which are vehicles with three axles or more except buses,” he said in a statement today.

However, he said, the ban is exempted for heavy vehicles involved in cleaning, domestic waste disposal and delivery work, emergency and enforcement services, as well as heavy vehicles with highway maintenance work.

“LLM calls on all owners and drivers of heavy vehicles to comply with the heavy vehicle movement ban when it begins to be implemented,” he said.

New Vehicle Inspection Companies to be Announced Tomorrow – Anthony Loke

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) will announce several new vehicle inspection companies tomorrow.

Its Minister, Anthony Loke said, “We hope that when we open up this market, there will be competition in terms of services.

“It will further improve the quality of vehicle inspections so that we can all ensure that the integrity of these vehicle inspections can be improved,” he said during the oral question and answer session at the Dewan Rakyat, today.

He was responding to a supplementary question from Syahredzan Johan (PH-Bangi) on the extent to which the practice of allowing a monopoly to a company can affect the level of vehicle safety.

Further commenting, Anthony admitted that if an industry has a monopoly element, it will affect the quality of services and therefore his party encourages competition.

“The Ministry of Transport has received approval from the Cabinet to end the concession policy or monopoly policy for Puspakom (Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre) last year.

“Currently, Puspakom actually no longer has a concession, what we have given them is just a license to operate.

“What we (want) to do is open up this vehicle inspection market to more other operators,” he said.

Aprilia Racing Real Team Experience Showcased Aprilia RS457 Track Activation

Didi Group organised an exclusive event for Aprilia owners over the weekend following the 2025 MotoGP pre-season Winter Test at the Sepang International Circuit. The event included riding the RS457 on the Sepang International Kart Circuit nearby.

Begin Press Release:

Didi Group, the sole importer and distributor of Aprilia in Malaysia has designed an exclusive event to strengthen its brand presence and a lasting impact during the MotoGP 2025 winter test season here in Malaysia. A day full of engagement with the Aprilia community, and introduction to the highly anticipated RS 457.

The event featured a special introduction, featuring Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi, showcasing their ambitions for the upcoming MotoGP 2025 season. Meet & Greet session with the 2025 MotoGP Aprilia Racing Team, giving fans and owners a rare opportunity to interact with top riders Jorge Martin, Marco Bezzecchi, and Lorenzo Savadori. Additionally, the RS 457 Track Activation aim to provide an exhilarating experience for attendees to witness Aprilia’s cutting-edge technology.

Key Highlights of the Event:

Exclusive Meet & Greet with Aprilia Racing Team.
RS 457 Track Activation – Showcased the latest in Aprilia’s sportbike innovation.
Lorenzo Savadori engagement with the Aprilia Community – Showcased his riding technique with the Aprilia RS 457.
Showcasing full Aprilia model line-up – RS660, Tuono 660, RS 457, SR GT 200 and SR GT 200 Replica.
Attendees included esteemed figures such as Mr. Massimo Rivola, Chief Operating Officer, Aprilia
Racing, along with Aprilia Malaysia’s key business partners, dealers, and a passionate community
of owners.

Aprilia continues to set new benchmarks in the sportbike segment with the all-new RS 457, a machine designed to deliver outstanding performance, easy handling, and cutting-edge technology. In a recent interview, Lorenzo shared his insights on the bike and the excitement it has generated among journalists and riders alike.

A Compact Powerhouse

When asked to describe the RS 457 in three words, Lorenzo was clear: Light and powerful, easy to ride, and technologically complete. This new addition to the RS family maintains Aprilia’s signature DNA while offering an exhilarating experience for both beginners and experienced riders.

An Authentic Aprilia Riding Experience

Comparing the RS 457 to the RSV4 and RS 660, Lorenzo affirmed that despite the differences in displacement and power, the RS 457 still embodies the distinct Aprilia essence. The RS 457 has fewer horsepowers than the RSV4, but when you jump on this bike, you feel you are riding an Aprilia, thanks to its typical Aprilia easy handling. This characteristic ensures that every rider experiences the precision and control that defines Aprilia
motorcycles.

Cutting-Edge Features for an Unmatched Ride

When asked about standout features, Lorenzo pointed to the RS 457’s advanced Traction Control system. The presence of the Traction Control feature allows for adjusting the setup to best fit my riding mode, he explained. This adaptability ensures that riders can tailor their experience to their skill level and riding conditions.

Ready for the Track

Beyond street riding, the RS 457 is primed for track use. Lorenzo emphasized the bike’s racing potential, noting that Aprilia Racing offers a special kit that transforms the RS 457 into a racing bike, including a fairing, ECU, air filter, and switch buttons.

The Aprilia RS 457 stands as a testament to innovation, performance, and the brand’s racing
heritage. With its dynamic capabilities and advanced technology, it is poised to become a favorite
among riders seeking both everyday thrills and track-ready excitement.

50 Percent Toll Discount for Hari Raya Aidilfitri

The Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, announced that a 50 percent toll discount will be implemented throughout the festive season this year (2025).

“Last year, the Cabinet had indeed decided to streamline the provision of subsidies to better target those in need of assistance.

“So, that decision is final, and there will be no more free tolls this year. As you are aware, during the Chinese New Year last week, there were no free tolls, but a 50 percent discount was given.

“Therefore, for Aidilfitri and other celebrations this year, we will implement a 50 percent discount,” he said.

He mentioned that this decision was made during the Cabinet meeting on January 24, involving a financial implication of RM20.08 million borne by the government as compensation to toll concession companies.

This will be implemented at all toll plazas except for the toll plazas at the country’s borders, namely the Sultan Iskandar Building Toll (BSI) on the North-South Expressway (PLUS) and the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza on the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link (LINKEDUA).

In the same development, Nanta Linggi stated that the Cabinet can make decisions and change views as needed.

“All tolls are funded by the government and not by the concession companies. I hope the public is aware of this (public money is being spent).

“If tolls were free, we would spend over RM100 million a year. With a 50 percent discount, the government will pay approximately RM80 million to the concession companies, and these savings can be used for maintenance work,” he said.

Malaysian Racer Saidatul Zakirah Zairin on the Podium in Qatar Superstock 600

Malaysian motorcycle racer, Saidatul Zakirah Zairin, brought honour to the nation in the Qatar Superstock 600 (QSTK) Championship race, under the Qatar Supersport 300 (QSSP) category. She successfully made it to the podium after finishing in second place in Race 2.

Saidatul Zakirah, also known as Kirah, secured fourth place in Race 1 before climbing to second place in Race 2. Kirah’s outstanding performance has caught the attention of many, especially since she participated in the race as a ‘wildcard’ (non-full-time) rider. She is also the first female rider to step onto the podium in the championship.

At the same time, another Malaysian racer, Johann Zharfan, also made it to the podium in the same category after finishing in third place in Race 1. However, luck was not on his side as a technical issue forced him to end Race 2 in sixth place.

This prestigious championship took place at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar and attracted professional riders from around the world.

Workshop Owner Arrested for Smuggling 11 Yamaha RX-Z

A motorcycle workshop owner was detained to assist in the investigation regarding a case of smuggling spare parts and Yamaha RX-Z motorcycles from Thailand in Kampung Padang Luas, Jertih, Terengganu, yesterday.

The Terengganu Police Chief, Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairudin, stated that the 41-year-old man was arrested during a raid on a house that was being used as a workshop to repair the motorcycles.

He mentioned that an inspection of the workshop uncovered 11 Yamaha RXZ motorcycles, motorcycle chassis (four), and suspicious motorcycle engine components (six).

“Initial investigations revealed that all the motorcycles and components were brought in from Thailand without any valid documentation.

“Further investigations found that the suspect has three past criminal records related to kidnapping, Section 29(1) of the Minor Offences Act 1955, and Section 6(1) of the Dangerous Drugs (Special Preventive Measures) Act 1985.

“A urine screening test on the suspect came back negative,” he said.