The transport ministry is looking into a possible solution to tackle the problem of abandoned vehicles, for which there are currently no provisions in the law to remove and dispose. It is studying the feasibility of implementing deregistration certificates for registered abandoned vehicles to kick start the process, Malay Mail reports.
Transport minister Anthony Loke said that presently, there were no existing regulations or rules that the road transport department (JPJ) can apply to get rid of these abandoned vehicles.
“Therefore, I have requested JPJ to come up with suggestions to implement a possible deregistration certificate mechanism. With a deregistration certificate mechanism running, local government authorities can proceed with scrapping these vehicles to solve the problem currently faced in densely populated areas,” he said.
Loke explained that this action was needed following numerous public complaints received by the local government authorities, especially in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. “Many of these vehicles, which are still registered, are left abandoned in housing areas, causing an eyesore and potential health hazards from the rusting metal,” he said.
Last year, it was reported that there were no fewer than eight million abandoned vehicles across the country, and the natural resources and environment ministry (NRE) said it was planning a review of the law to empower authorities to dispose of these vehicles. The suggested plan then was to remove these vehicles and dispose them at gazetted vehicle graveyards.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Many comments express frustration over the problem of abandoned vehicles and support the government's initiative to deregister unused or expired cars, which could help clear roadside clutter and improve safety. Several commenters highlight the sentimental or monetary value of preserving old number plates and worry about losing heirlooms or assets. There’s criticism of past government inaction under BN and skepticism about current efforts, with some accusing the new government of corruption or prioritizing profit over public welfare. A few comments suggest better management, such as auto-deregistration of unpaid or expired vehicles, and urge quicker implementation of these policies. Overall, the comments reveal a mix of hope, concern, and skepticism regarding the government's efforts to address vehicle abandonment and related issues.