Mechanic caught by JPJ for not renewing road tax for 23 years

IPOH: A 61-year-old mechanic was caught riding a motorcycle without renewing his road tax for the past 23 years.

He was held for questioning and his motorcycle was seized during a Road Transport Department (JPJ) operation along Jalan Silibin-Ipoh today.

Perak JPJ chief Mohammad Yusoff Abustan said the road tax had expired in 2002.

“Strict action will be taken against the motorcycle owner for violating Section 23(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which requires all motor vehicles on the road to have a valid Motor Vehicle Licence (LKM).

“This offence is serious because the LKM is not only proof that the vehicle has been registered but also ensures that the owner pays the required road tax and meets the vehicle safety requirements,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

He said the man claimed that he only rode his motorcycle within residential areas and not on the main roads.

He added that vehicles that do not have a valid LKM were at risk of not being covered by insurance in the event of an accident, thus causing complications for the victim and the vehicle owner.

“The offence of not renewing the LKM can be subject to a fine of up to RM2,000 or imprisonment not exceeding six months, or both, if convicted,” he said.

He said JPJ called on all vehicle owners to follow the regulations that have been set to avoid any legal action and ensure the safety of all road users.

“Operations like this will continue from time to time to ensure that road users always comply with the law,” he added.