JPJ issues over 133,000 summonses to foreign drivers in eight months

The ministry said the Road Transport Department (JPJ) recorded 21,232 offences for not having a Competent Driving Licence (CDL), while offences for not having a Goods Driving Licence (GDL) and a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence totalled 1,933 and 85 cases, respectively. — Bernama file pic

First Published: Friday, 06 Nov 2026 10:43 AM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 6 — A total of 133,081 summonses were issued to foreign drivers between January and August this year for various traffic offences, including driving without a valid licence.

In a written reply published on the Parliament website, the Transport Ministry (MOT) said the action was taken under subsection 26 (1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333), which provides for a fine of between RM500 and RM2,000, or imprisonment for up to three months, or both, upon conviction.

The ministry said the Road Transport Department (JPJ) recorded 21,232 offences for not having a Competent Driving Licence (CDL), while offences for not having a Goods Driving Licence (GDL) and a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence totalled 1,933 and 85 cases, respectively.

“Other offences recorded included expired Motor Vehicle Licences (LKM), lack of insurance, absence of an entry permit or International Circulation Permit (ICP), as well as overloading.

“The ministry also emphasised the responsibility of vehicle owners and employers to ensure that only individuals with valid driving licences are allowed to drive on the road,” it said in reply to a question from Dr Siti Mastura Muhammad (PN-Kepala Batas) on cases involving foreigners driving motor vehicles without valid driving licences.

It also said foreign nationals, including holders of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) cards, found driving without valid licences would not be offered the option to pay a compound fine, but would instead be charged in court.

“Seizure action under Section 64(1) of Act 333 is also taken against foreign nationals involved in traffic offences. JPJ statistics showed that 3,572 vehicles were seized in 2025, while 7,445 vehicles were seized from January to October 2026.

“The same provision also prohibits any party from employing or allowing a person without a valid driving licence to drive. Action can also be taken against vehicle owners or employers who allow foreigners to drive without the requisite qualifications and valid documents,” the ministry said. — Bernama