Ministry of Transport examines bus drivers’ accreditation card regulations

The Ministry of Transport is currently examining regulations for the proposed issuance of accreditation cards for bus drivers, according to Minister Anthony Loke. Approval to issue the cards was granted several months ago, and finalisation of related regulations is ongoing, according to NST.

“Actually, this matter was brought to our attention a few months ago and we have actually approved the issuance of bus driver cards, subject to certain regulations which are currently being finalised,” Loke said.

The initiative for the accreditation cards was proposed by Datuk Mohamad Ashfar Ali, president of the Pan Malaysian Bus Operators Association. The proposed cards aim to ensure accountability of both bus drivers and operators in case of complaints or incidents. Currently, the Land Public Transport Agency only issues accreditation cards to e-hailing and taxi drivers.

Major repression against tourist buses

Minister Loke also addressed the ongoing major crackdown on tourist buses, which was launched on Monday in response to the fatal accident in Genting Highlands in which two Chinese tourists were killed. A total of 351 inspections of tourist buses have been conducted so far. The inspections have uncovered several violations, including four cases of unlicensed driving and numerous cases of drug abuse by drivers.

“We have conducted checks on 351 tourist buses, four of which were for driving without a license, and taken other actions. So far, six drivers have been detained for misuse or failure to produce urine drug test results,” Loke said.

Loke highlighted the seriousness of the problem, saying these checks reveal serious concerns about driving and drug abuse. He assured that enforcement is not seasonal and will continue on all types of vehicles, including tourist buses, express buses, factory buses and trucks.

The crackdown comes after a tragic incident at Genting Highlands where two Chinese tourists died. The victims, who died at the scene, are believed to have been trapped in their seats during the 10:40am crash.

The Ministry of Transport’s efforts to increase bus driver accountability and ongoing enforcement actions reflect its commitment to improving road safety and addressing key issues in the transport sector.