Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Transport will initiate phased enforcement of mandatory Speed Limitation Devices (SLD) for commercial vehicles, including express and tour buses, starting October 1. Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasized that the enforcement by the Road Transport Department (RTD) is part of a broader initiative to enhance road safety and reduce the risk of fatal accidents involving such vehicles.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the phased implementation will initially apply to all express and tour buses, as well as heavy goods vehicles exceeding 3,500 kilograms in maximum permissible weight, registered from January 1, 2015, onwards. Operators are required to obtain a functional verification and SLD report from the vehicle manufacturer or any party recognized by the RTD, including technical services, authorized workshops, service facilities, or certification bodies accredited by the Department of Standards Malaysia.

The SLD verification documents and reports must be renewed every two years and presented at the Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) as well as during permit applications or renewals with the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD). Speaking at a press conference following the launch of the SLD implementation for commercial vehicles, Loke stated that the verification documents must be kept in the vehicle at all times for enforcement purposes.

Loke announced that the activation of the SLD function within the Electronic Control Unit will be mandatory from January 1, 2026, for heavy goods vehicles exceeding 3,500 kilograms and vehicles carrying more than eight passengers that were registered before January 1, 2015. He added that the requirement will also apply to rebuilt vehicles and imported used goods vehicles exceeding 3,500 kilograms in maximum permissible weight.

For heavy goods vehicles exceeding 3,500 kilograms and vehicles carrying more than eight passengers that are not equipped with an SLD system, it will be mandatory to install an RTD-approved retrofit SLD device, effective July 1, 2026. Loke emphasized that this enforcement is a crucial step to ensure that commercial vehicles comply with critical safety standards, thereby reducing the risk of road accidents involving loss of life and property.

All buses and heavy vehicles will be subject to a maximum speed limit of 90 km/h through the mandatory installation of the SLD. Loke explained that this device will cap the speed of buses and heavy vehicles at 90 km/h, although drivers must still adhere to speed limits applicable in specific areas. Even on highways where the speed limit is up to 110 km/h, vehicles equipped with the SLD will be restricted to 90 km/h. This will be enforced consistently.

Loke also announced that the RTD will convene a meeting soon with all major vehicle manufacturers and accredited certification bodies regarding the enforcement of the SLD. Further details on the implementation mechanism, and the list of approved companies and certifying bodies authorized to verify SLDs will be published on the RTD website soon.