Local News Archives

JPJ Offers Special Compound for 3 Offences for 6 Months

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is offering a special compound rate of RM150 for 3 offences for 6 months, starting today, January 3, 2025.

Malaysian Transport Minister, YB Anthony Loke said it involves 3 types of JPJ summons notices, namely the Automatic Awareness Security System (AwAS) summons (Summon 53A), the Investigation Interview Notice (114) and the Stamped Summons Notice/JPJ(P)23 (115).

All three usually have a compound rate of RM300. So we are giving a special compound rate starting tomorrow, January 3, for six months so that they can settle this compound.

“Because there are two million outstanding AwAS summons… and there are indeed restrictions on those who do not settle AwAS summons, if they do not settle the summons they cannot renew their driving licence or motor vehicle licence,” he said.

Loke said payments can be made through various channels including at JPJ counters, public portals, JPJ kiosks, JPJ mobile counters and the myJPJ application.

He said the special compound payment cannot be made through the MyEG channel and at Pos Malaysia.

Meanwhile, he said the collection of demerit points will be temporarily suspended from tomorrow until June 30.

Loke said during that period, the JPJ Enforcement Division will conduct a review of the method of implementing the Demerit Points System.

2025 Zontes 368G Price Announced in Malaysia – From RM28,800

Finally, after much anticipation, rumours, gnashing of teeth, the 2025 Zontes 368G’s price has been announced in Malaysia. Zontes Malaysia puts the recommended selling price at RM28,800.

We have posted about the bike’s mind-boggling list of features from our test rides in Guangzhou, China, but here is a recap (the ones we missed are highlighted in bold):

368cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, single-cylinder engine that produces a whopping 38.8hp and 40Nm of torque. It takes the prize as the most powerful powerplant in the 350cc-400cc scooter category.
Upside-down 41mm forks adjustable for compression damping and tension (rebound damping).

Dual shocks adjustable for preload and tension, with remote reservoirs.
300mm front disc grabbed by a four-piston J.Juan radially-mounted caliper. J.Juan is now owned by Brembo.

ABS is dual-channel but the rear ABS can be turned off for off-road riding.
790mm standard seat height. The owner can opt for the 770mm lowered seat height.

Ground clearance is 180mm.
Front wheels are 17-inches, the rear are 14-inches.

Massive 52-liter underseat storage space that can take two full-face helmets. You can fit an adventure helmet (sideways) at the rear portion!
Three. Yes, 3(!) USB charging ports.

8-inch colour TFT screen which supports connectivity to the rider’s smartphone and Bluetooth intercom.
Two power modes – Sport and Economy.

Backlit switchgear.
Keyless ignition and fuel filler cover.

Adjustable windscreen over 7 positions.
Adjustable front and rear brake levers.

Hand protectors are standard.
Extra pair of footpegs for the rider to stand on when riding off-road (or if he wants to ride aggressively).

Front and rear facing dashcam as a standard feature.
Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Heated grips. Don’t laugh about this feature – wait until you ride at Genting Highlands in the rain!
Crash protection bars.

There are three colourways, namely Grey with Blue, White with Gold, and Golden Stone Green.

Last but not least, about consumers’ concerns about after-sales and spare parts availability, this is what Zontes Malaysia has to say:

In light of recent public concerns about our after-sales services, particularly the availability of spare parts, we have undertaken a comprehensive review and implemented a series of measures to address this issue. Our primary goal is to ensure that our customers will not experience and inconvenience due to spare parts shortages in the future. These measures include increasing our inventory levels and establishing a stronger partnership with (the) Zontes HQ. We are committed to provide the highest leverl of service and reliability to our customers.

Picture gallery

Two Puspakom Personnel Called for Questioning

The Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) confirmed that two of its employees from the Wangsa Maju branch have been summoned to give statements to the Road Transport Department (JPJ), today.

Its Chief Executive Officer, Mahmood Razak Bahman, however, did not elaborate on why the two employees were ordered to give statements to the JPJ Enforcement Department.

“Puspakom stressed that the staff involved will not be protected from any internal disciplinary action, if any misconduct is proven.

“To ensure the integrity of Puspakom’s inspection, the company will not hesitate to take appropriate action against the staff involved as provided for under the terms and conditions of the employment contract, including suspension or dismissal,” he said in a statement to the press, yesterday.

Apart from that, Mahmood also confirmed that a vehicle inspected at the Wangsa Maju branch was seized by JPJ for using a foreign driver without a valid driving license.

Earlier, JPJ was reported to have conducted simultaneous operations at all Puspakom branches nationwide yesterday, to ensure that every vehicle inspected at the facility complies with the set standards.

Among the offences detected by lorry drivers in PUSPAKOM’s Surprise Operation was the use of worn and unsafe dipped tyres among heavy vehicles, despite being aware that they were at risk of leaking at any time.

Meanwhile, Mahmood said that full cooperation would be given to JPJ which was conducting surprise inspections at all Puspakom branches nationwide, today.

He said Puspakom also welcomed the enforcement action on the company’s branches, aimed at ensuring that inspection operations are carried out in accordance with the standard operating procedures (SOP) set.

“This step will help in efforts to instill road safety practices in the country.

“The collaboration between Puspakom and JPJ is believed to strengthen efforts to improve road safety levels and preserve the integrity of the country’s transportation system.

“Puspakom is always committed to ensuring that all vehicles inspected meet the set safety requirements.

“This surprise inspection is part of JPJ’s ongoing efforts to ensure safety and compliance with laws relating to vehicles on the road.

“We fully support the initiative to ensure that all inspection procedures are carried out transparently and in accordance with the standards set by the authorities,” he said.

JPJ Issues 5306 Notices Against Commercial Vehicles in 5 Days

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued 5,306 offence notices against 17,729 commercial and public service vehicles that were inspected during the five-day Operasi Khas ‘Gempur Teknikal’ nationwide which began on December 25.

The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Transport, Datuk Jana Santhiran Muniayan, said that in the operation, 16 vehicles were seized involving 15 commercial vehicles and one public service vehicle.

He said that the special operation, which was held in conjunction with the Christmas celebration, JPJ had mobilized more than 1,500 personnel who focused on enforcement against commercial vehicle offences.

“This operation focused on overloading, technical, documentation and traffic offences as well as technical vehicle manufacturing and use.

“A total of 17,729 vehicles were inspected involving 15,770 commercial vehicles and public service vehicles (1,959).

“A total of 1,787 vehicles were subject to action while 578 vehicle owners were given inspection slips involving 544 (commercial) and public (34),” he said.

He said this to the media after leading the Special Technical Raid Operation at the Southbound Rest and Treatment Area (R&R), North-South Expressway Project (PLUS), here, today.

Also present were JPJ Senior Director of Enforcement, Muhmmad Kifli Ma Hassan and Negeri Sembilan JPJ Director, Hanif Yusabra Yusuf.

Commenting further, Jana Santhiran said his party views seriously the series of accidents and deaths due to road accidents involving commercial vehicles.

“Therefore, stricter enforcement action is being taken against vehicles that fail to comply with regulations under the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333), the Land Public Transport Act 2010 (Act 715) and Rules nationwide.

“To ensure more aggressive and proactive monitoring can be carried out, JPJ will maintain a total of 1,500 members in each special operation including during festive seasons such as Chinese New Year and the upcoming Aidilfitri,” he told Harian Metro.

Courier Stabbed in Eye – Police Denies Refusing Report

The Bentong District Police Chief has denied allegations that his department refused to accept a report made by a courier who claimed to have been stabbed in the eye.

Superintendent Zaiham Mohd Kahar said the Bentong District Police Headquarters (IPD) detected the allegation which was spread via WhatsApp.

He said, based on the screenshot, it claimed that the Bentong police refused to accept a report from a delivery man regarding a disagreement between the courier and his customer that resulted in the victim being injured.

According to him, the content of the WhatsApp that went viral was untrue because his department received the report from the victim and was investigating the case.

“The victim was also sent to Temerloh Hospital for further treatment,” he said in a statement today.

In this regard, he said, at 3.01 pm yesterday, a police report was made by an assistant criminal investigation officer of the Bentong IPD regarding the defamatory allegation.

“The case is being investigated under Section 500 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998,” he said.

Meanwhile, Zaiham advised the public to be more responsible and not arbitrarily spread something that is not true.

“Bentong Police also requested that the suspect who spread the WhatsApp message come forward to the Bentong IPD for further investigation,” he said.

1457 Deaths Involving Lorries Since 2019

A total of 1,457 deaths from 3,500 accidents involving lorries were recorded from January 2019 to November 2024. The statistics were revealed by the Director of the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) Datuk Seri Mohd. Yusri Hassan Basri.

He also detailed the number of deaths due to lorry accidents by year:

2019 – 274 deaths.
2020 – 226 deaths.
2021 – 230 deaths.
2022 – 232 deaths.
2023 – 235 deaths.
2024 (as of November) – 260 deaths.

In addition, there were 473 cases of serious injuries and 1,076 minor injuries from the total number of accidents.

For accidents involving buses, 548 cases were recorded for the same period with 153 deaths, 120 serious injuries and 218 minor injuries recorded.

“The police will continue to intensify monitoring and enforcement operations on commercial vehicles, especially lorries and buses, in an effort to reduce the alarming number of deaths recorded,” he said when contacted by Bernama today.

Datuk Seri Mohd. Yusri said the police would increase cooperation with relevant parties such as the Road Transport Department (JPJ), the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) and highway concessionaires for that purpose. He also hoped that owners, companies and drivers of commercial vehicles would work together to ensure the safety of their vehicles.

Up to RM6000 Rebate for Aprilia SR GT 200 Series

Didi Group, sole distributor and importer of Aprilia motorcycles in Malaysia is thrilled to introduce an exclusive sales campaign for its celebrated Aprilia SR GT 200 series (SR GT 200, SR GT 200 SPORT, and SR GT 200 REPLICA). This campaign start on December 2024 while stock last , offers irresistible cash rebates, exceptional value, and a chance to experience Aprilia’s innovative edge.

Campaign Highlights:

1. Aprilia SR GT 200

- Selling Price : RM19,900
- Cash Rebate: RM 6,000

2. Aprilia SR GT 200 SPORT

- Selling Price: RM20,900
- Cash Rebate: RM 5,000

3. Aprilia SR GT 200 REPLICA

- Selling Price: RM20,900
- Cash Rebate: RM 2,000

The Aprilia SR GT is more than a scooter—it’s a dynamic urban commuter designed to deliver performance, comfort, and versatility.

Key features include:

All-Terrain Capability: A semi-off-road design featuring wide, all-terrain tires ensures confident
handling on various surfaces, from city streets to rough paths.
High-Performance Engine: Powered by a 174cc i-get engine, delivering responsive acceleration and
fuel efficiency, the SR GT is perfect for daily commutes or weekend adventures.
Sporty and Ergonomic Design: Inspired by Aprilia’s racing DNA, the SR GT combines sporty
aesthetics with a rider-centric ergonomic layout for long-lasting comfort.
Advanced Technology: Includes full LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and an optional
connectivity system to sync with your smartphone for added convenience.
Superior Safety: Equipped with a front-wave disc brake and ABS for optimal stopping power.

JPJ Recalls Vehicles for Safety

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) recalls vehicles for inspection by the relevant car manufacturers to ensure safety on the road.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said all recalls are official announcements from JPJ to vehicle owners.

He said that previously if there was a vehicle problem related to technical issues, the manufacturer would issue a recall notice. “However, vehicle owners usually ignore the announcement notice and think it is a trivial matter.

“Now, we have stipulated that if there is a technical problem with the vehicle, the company must inform JPJ before the department will make an announcement to recall the vehicle for inspection.

“Owners must be aware of every announcement regarding the matter and send the vehicle back to the workshop designated by the company with the cost borne by the company,” he said when met after officiating the Negeri Sembilan-level MyLesen Program at the Kuala Klawang Great Hall here today.

Also present were Secretary-General of the Ministry of Transport Malaysia (MOT) Datuk Jana Santhiran Muniayan and JPJ Director-General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli.

Anthony Loke said that owners face safety risks when using the vehicle if they ignore the recall process.

Highway Stretch between Jitra and Hutan Kampung Reopened

The 32.1KM to 33.2KM (kilometre) stretch on the North-South Expressway between Jitra and Hutan Kampung has been reopened today.

The North-South Expressway Corporation (PLUS) Malaysia announced in a post on its Facebook page that the right lanes for both directions have been reopened for traffic. However, the left lanes for both directions are still closed due to flooding.

Northbound vehicles were diverted off the highway via the Alor Setar North Interchange and re-entered the highway via the Jitra South Interchange, during the closure of the route.

Several states in Peninsular Malaysia such as Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, Pahang, Melaka have experienced severe flooding since last week following the arrival of the Northeast Monsoon. The massive flooding has seen more than 300,000 residents in the affected states temporarily evacuated. More and more flood victims have been allowed to return to their homes, but the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a warning of a monsoon surge expected to occur next week.

4,225 Passed Full B Transition Program in November

A total of 4,225 candidates for the Class B Licence Transition Program have passed as of November this year.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said that of the 5,477 candidates who sat for the transition programme, 23 per cent, or 1,251 candidates, failed in the testing process.

“As of November 27, 177 driving institutes (IMs) out of 245 IMs have been involved in offering this transition programme,” he said in response to a question from Senator Datuk Abdul Halim Suleiman on the ministry’s steps to ensure that driving licence centre operators receive and process applications that have been approved by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) for the programme.

Loke said his ministry and JPJ were constantly monitoring the implementation of the programme and action would be taken against any IM that had made a commitment to implementing the programme, but failed to process applications from the public.

MetMalaysia Issues Monsoon Surge Warning from 8 to 14 December

The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has issued a significant weather warning that a monsoon surge from 8 to 14 December 2024 is expected to bring continuous heavy rain. The states of Kelantan and Terengganu will be especially vulnerable to the storm.

Additionally and based on the analysis of the latest weather models, a convergence of winds is expected to occur in Kelantan and Terengganu starting Tuesday evening (3 December) until early Wednesday morning (4 December).

“The situation has the potential to produce thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rain during the period,” the statement said.

In this regard, the public is advised to always refer to the website www.met.gov.my and the official METMalaysia social media and download the myCuaca application for the latest and most accurate information.

We are not a weather channel but we feel this news is important for all of us who drive and ride, as well as those who are planning year-end holidays.

For your information, 2024 is the first year to record surface temperatures higher than the pre-industrial baseline of 1.50º. This means that this year is the warmest year on record.

Warmer surface temperatures not only cause droughts, but also more intense rainfall, typhoons, cyclones, and hurricanes. This is because the high heat evaporates water, resulting in more water vapour in the atmosphere. This phenomenon is called atmospheric convection. This water vapour then condenses and falls as heavy rain or storms.

Suzuki GSX-8R Price Annouced from RM53,800

Many, us included, had been waiting and even imploring Suzuki Malaysia to release the selling price of the Suzuki GSX-8R since it was revealed some time back. Now we know, it starts from RM53,800.

To recap, the Suzuki GSX-8R like its GSX-8S naked sibling have been enjoying brisk sales the world over. It has since garnered much accolade include the prestigious Motorcycle News (MCM) Sportsbike of the Year Award for 2023, despite facing stiff competition in that er… competitive category. Owners and reviewers alike loved its handling, electronics, and value.

Although it is sportier than the GSX-8S, Suzuki never forgets about rider comfort and practicality, just like GSX-R sportbike range. The GSX-8R can serve as a daily commuter and long-range tourer.

The engine is a 776cc, parallel-twin with 270º carnk, and produces 82hp at 8,500 RPM and 78Nm at 6,800 RPM. Granted, 82hp from a sub-800cc bike is not a lot, but that high torque is what makes the bike a gem to ride.

The chassis includes Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) fork, complemented by radially-mounted Nissin calipers.

Electronic rider aids include the Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) with three riding modes, dual-channel ABS, and quickshifter. There is a 5-inch TFT display.

To underline the Suzuki GSX-8R’s sporting prowess, Team Hammer had achieved their 133rd race win in the AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National championships with the bike in 2024.

We cannot wait to review this bike. Who knows, we might add it to our stable, too!

Bikesrepublic

Local News

JPJ Offers Special Compound for 3 Offences for 6 Months

2025 Zontes 368G Price Announced in Malaysia – From RM28,800

Picture gallery

Two Puspakom Personnel Called for Questioning

JPJ Issues 5306 Notices Against Commercial Vehicles in 5 Days

Courier Stabbed in Eye – Police Denies Refusing Report

1457 Deaths Involving Lorries Since 2019

Up to RM6000 Rebate for Aprilia SR GT 200 Series

Campaign Highlights:

Key features include:

JPJ Recalls Vehicles for Safety

Highway Stretch between Jitra and Hutan Kampung Reopened

4,225 Passed Full B Transition Program in November

MetMalaysia Issues Monsoon Surge Warning from 8 to 14 December

Suzuki GSX-8R Price Annouced from RM53,800

Huge Fire at Putra Heights Prompts Evacuation of Residents

Boon Siew Honda Welcomes Kunitomo Asano as MD and CEO

Use of AI to Catch Speeding Drivers

Driver Who Rammed a Senior Citizen under Overhead Bridge Detained

2025 BMW C 400 X and 2025 BMW C 400 GT Launched in Malaysia

2025 Honda X-ADV has Arrived in Malaysia – From RM69,999

2025 Honda NSS250 Launched in Malaysia – From RM25,888

New Colour for 2025 Honda CBR150R

Harley Night 2025 – Celebration of Camaraderie and Unveiling of 2024 Collector’s Edition

Royal Enfield Guerilla 450 Launched in Malaysia – From RM28,700

Royal Enfield Classic 350 Launched in Malaysia – From RM23,700

Hong Leong Yamaha Road Safety Campaign 2025 – ‘Terang Dalam Gelap’

Archive

Adventure Motorcycles for New Riders (2025) – Part 2

No More Free Tolls for Festive Seasons from this Year

16-Year-Old Driver Caused 5 Deaths in Road Accident

Yamaha MT-09 – Best Naked Bike of the Year 2025 (Below 1000cc)

MV Agusta Back in Timur Sardarov’s Control

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