Sarawak to review lorry load limit 'if the roads can take it'

The Star

15 hours ago

SIBU: Sarawak will review the permitted lorry load limit after a detailed study by the Public Works Department (JKR) and the Road Transport Department (JPJ).
State Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said his ministry is prepared to consider adjusting the weight limit as long as existing roads can bear the additional load.
'This measure requires a thorough review of various factors, including safety, road structure and industry needs.
"We are open to discussions and finding solutions with industry stakeholders,' he said at the Sarawak Federal Lorry Association's 40th anniversary celebration on Sunday (Aug 3) night.
Lee acknowledged that the transport sector faces multiple challenges, such as rising operating costs, a driver shortage, the need for equipment upgrades, and differences between federal policies and state-level implementation.
'The Sarawak government will continue acting as a bridge for communication with the Federal Government to convey the concerns of local businesses.
"We want policies that are more realistic and aligned with Sarawak's geographical and economic needs,' he added.
He also encouraged operators to raise issues through official channels, such as industry associations, so that the ministry can take appropriate action.
Earlier, association president Ling Kah Kiong to revise the lorry load limit, arguing that current regulations no longer reflect operational costs.
'Over 80% of lorries now carry loads exceeding the limit simply to remain profitable.
"If this issue is ignored, operators will continue breaching regulations to sustain their businesses, leaving the government to bear high road maintenance costs,' he said.
On accidents involving heavy vehicles, Ling called on the federal Transport Ministry to avoid imposing broad punitive measures on the industry following recent incidents in Peninsular Malaysia.
'Rushed policies and public statements without addressing root causes only create tension between authorities and operators.
"Individual mistakes should not lead to collective punishment,' he stressed
He also urged the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) to take a more proactive role by conducting field studies and providing accurate Sarawak-specific data to shape transport policies based on local realities.