Mandatory Checks For Old Cars Must Not Burden Owners Say Experts

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An MP has suggested that cars older than 15 years be required to undergo an inspection before their road tax is renewed.
PETALING JAYA: Road safety experts have welcomed an MP’s proposal for mandatory inspection of vehicles that are more than 15 years old but said the policy must consider its impact on low-income car owners.
Tebrau MP Jimmy Puah recently proposed mandatory inspections for old cars before their road tax is renewed, and suggested cash incentives to encourage owners to scrap old cars.
Speaking to FMT, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Rozmi Ismail and Universiti Putra Malaysia’s Law Teik Hua acknowledged that ageing cars pose significant risks, such as brake deterioration, rusted frames, outdated safety features, and higher emissions.
However, they said that low-income Malaysians, who rely on older vehicles for their daily commute and livelihood, must not be disproportionately affected.
“If a car that is more than 20 years old is still good in terms of maintenance, such as the body and engine, then it should be no problem (for the owner to keep it),” Rozmi said.
He said the government should offer subsidies or discounts for owners to ease their financial burden.
“If higher charges are imposed (by Puspakom or the three new inspection companies coming in), these owners may not be able to afford them,” he said.
According to Puspakom’s website, vehicle inspection fees currently range from RM30 to RM90, depending on the type. Ownership transfer costs RM30, hire purchase inspections RM60, and voluntary checks RM50, while special inspections vary by need.
Law proposed a phased rollout of the proposal to allow for a smoother transition and a thorough preparation.
He also said insurers could lower premiums for compliant vehicles as an incentive, though he acknowledged that companies might resist it because of potential administrative costs.
To counter this, he said, insurers could collaborate with the government to offer discounted policies for inspected cars. - FMT

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