Haulage firms push for driver background checks, digital safety systems
KUALA LUMPUR: Employers in the haulage industry currently lack access to a centralised platform for screening drivers' criminal or drug-related records, says Association of Malaysia Hauliers (AMH).
Its executive secretary Mohamad Azuan Masud said, "There is no formal platform to vet drivers' backgrounds. We rely on personal or previous employer references."
He also pointed out that the Kejara demerit points system, used for tracking traffic offences, was not accessible to employers for screening purposes.
In response to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's recent call for company owners to take greater responsibility for accidents involving their vehicles, Azuan stressed that haulage companies were already held accountable through stringent regulations.
These include the Industry Code of Practice (ICOP) audits conducted by the Road Transport Department (RTD).
"What the deputy prime minister said is not new. ICOP audits are already in place and actively enforced," Azuan said.
"These audits ensure that operators comply with essential safety protocols, such as fire preparedness and safety briefings. Failure to meet these standards can lead to the suspension or revocation of operating permits."
He also highlighted the thorough vehicle inspections carried out at Puspakom, ensuring technical compliance with regional standards.
Despite the existing oversight, AMH is urging the government to support the adoption of advanced digital safety systems like onboard cameras and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (Adas), which could further enhance safety.
"We've proposed these technologies, but the cost is prohibitive for many operators. Government funding is needed to make them viable," he added.
As part of the National Logistics Task Force (NLTF), AMH has submitted both short-term and long-term recommendations to the Transport Ministry and is awaiting the government's response.
Zahid made the remarks following a tragic crash in Teluk Intan, Perak, where a rock-laden lorry collided with a vehicle carrying 18 Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) personnel, resulting in nine fatalities.
The deputy prime minister stressed that such accidents could be prevented if companies took full responsibility for the condition of their vehicles and the drivers they employ.
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