KUALA LUMPUR – A TikTok video featuring a frustrated netizen blasting Transport Minister Anthony Loke has gone viral, stirring heated discussions about the state of Malaysia’s transport policies, particularly the role of Puspakom and JPJ in regulating commercial vehicles.
The viral video, which has gained significant traction online, accuses the minister of imposing excessive burdens on lorry and bus operators. The netizen claims that Puspakom’s strict inspection criteria and rising costs are making it increasingly difficult for transporters to operate, while JPJ’s enforcement officers allegedly add to their woes through unfair penalties and bribery.
Mounting Complaints Against Puspakom
The netizen lists a series of grievances regarding Puspakom’s inspection process, highlighting how vehicle operators fail over minor issues such as missing stickers, a lack of a dustbin, or an absent warning triangle. He argues that these factors do not compromise road safety and that vehicle owners are already prioritizing essential maintenance such as brakes, suspension, and alignment.
Long waiting hours at Puspakom centers have also been criticized, with operators claiming that even scheduled appointments do not guarantee smooth processing. He further alleges that external middlemen, or “runners,” are exploiting the system, suggesting possible corruption within the process.
JPJ Enforcement Under Scrutiny
In addition to Puspakom, the video also targets JPJ officers, accusing them of frequent roadblocks and alleged bribery, particularly at airports. The netizen claims that officers often fine drivers for trivial reasons, with some penalties reaching up to RM30,000. He questions whether these enforcement measures are genuinely for public safety or merely tactics to extract money from hardworking operators.
Demand for Ministerial Action
The netizen questions whether Anthony Loke is truly looking after the welfare of the people, particularly the Chinese community, as he had promised. He claims that despite repeated appeals and letters sent to the minister’s office, there has been no response.
Expressing his frustration, he warns that he will continue exposing the system’s flaws through live broadcasts if the government remains unresponsive. He challenges the minister to personally visit Puspakom and witness the struggles faced by vehicle owners firsthand.
Government’s Response and Planned Reforms
The Ministry of Transport has recently announced significant reforms, including opening up vehicle inspections to multiple companies to end Puspakom’s monopoly. Additionally, the ministry has pledged to work with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to investigate allegations of corruption in Puspakom and JPJ.
Puspakom’s CEO has assured the public of improvements in transparency and efficiency, while the government has acknowledged public dissatisfaction and promised further enhancements in enforcement procedures.
Despite these measures, the viral video reflects the deep-seated frustrations of commercial vehicle operators who feel overwhelmed by bureaucracy, rising costs, and a lack of direct engagement from authorities. As the controversy unfolds, the public is watching closely to see whether Anthony Loke will take decisive action to address these grievances.