Kuala lumpur: The government is drafting legal amendments to allow enforcement not only against drivers and transport companies, but also consignors and consignees involved in overloading lorries. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the move aims to ensure the entire logistics ecosystem is held accountable and complies with legal load limits.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasized the importance of holding all parties responsible for overloading offenses. He noted that currently, only drivers and vehicle-owning companies face penalties for such violations. However, the proposed amendments aim to extend accountability to both senders and receivers of goods, ensuring comprehensive compliance for road safety.

Loke highlighted the dual impact of overloaded lorries, which pose road safety risks and accelerate road deterioration, leading to increased maintenance costs. He pointed out that overloaded lorries contribute significantly to the formation of potholes, which not only raise maintenance expenses but also heighten safety risks, especially for motorcyclists.

The minister also drew attention to the pressures faced by lorry drivers and transport companies from quarry or factory owners to carry excess loads as a cost-cutting measure. To address this, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) will enforce stricter measures, including issuing final warnings to quarry and sand operators before intensifying enforcement actions.

In an effort to further safeguard road infrastructure, Loke mentioned the government's promotion of a 'road-to-rail' policy. This initiative encourages the shift of heavy and high-risk cargo transport from roads to railways, aiming to reduce accidents and preserve road conditions.