SLD Enforced, Operations Against Overloading Stepped Up - Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 17 (Bernama) -- The government is now enforcing the phased installation of speed limitation devices (SLD) on commercial vehicles to ensure that lorries and buses comply with road speed limits.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said in a statement that the initiative, which began on Oct 1, aims to reduce the risk of fatal accidents caused by speeding.

“This measure is supported by proposed fiscal incentives under Budget 2026, namely an Accelerated Capital Allowance within one year to ease the cost of installing or calibrating SLDs at accredited centres,” said Ahmad Zahid, who chaired the 7th meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Congestion (JK-MKKJR) today.

Ahmad Zahid said the government, through the Ministry of Transport and the Road Transport Department, is also stepping up integrated operations in six main zones — north, central, south, east, as well as Sabah and Sarawak — to address the issue of vehicles carrying loads exceeding permitted limits.

He said a new enforcement method is also being introduced, including a “three strikes out” action that allows for the suspension of heavy vehicle company licences and permits if they repeatedly commit overloading offences.

“To support enforcement, the use of automated weigh-in-motion (HS-WIM) systems will be enhanced, and load inspections have been made compulsory at port entry points starting July 1, 2025.

“This step is crucial to reducing the risk of fatal accidents, preserving the integrity of roads and national infrastructure, and fostering a culture of compliance with the law,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid said that from January to Sept 30 this year, 4,875 road fatalities were recorded, with an average of 18 deaths per day, compared with 17 per day last year, an alarming increase that demands stricter enforcement.

He said today’s meeting also discussed government efforts under Budget 2026, which allocates RM13 billion to upgrade and widen federal and state roads, as well as RM2.5 billion for maintenance, resurfacing damaged roads, and installing 3,000 LED lights at accident hotspots along highways.

In addition, he said the government also agreed to implement several key measures, including improvements to health screenings for commercial vehicle drivers and the Intelligent Traffic System (ITS) Malaysia 2030 Roadmap, which will support the national agenda towards a smarter, safer, more efficient and sustainable transport system.

However, he said road safety requires shared responsibility and cannot be placed on a single agency; instead, it demands coordination between ministries, data-driven policies and the courage to make decisions for the continuity of the nation’s transport system.

“I believe that when the people are given understanding and good options, they will help shape a new mobility culture that is more efficient, safe and resilient,” he added.

-- BERNAMA