PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Transport Ministry (MOT) is set to collaborate with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to investigate allegations of vehicles failing to meet the standards set by the Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom). The investigation aims to address integrity issues and potential syndicates providing unauthorized services, such as approving non-compliant vehicles.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook emphasized the importance of the probe in tackling issues related to 'runners' and cartels that might enable vehicles to pass inspections without meeting Road Transport Department (RTD) standards. The ministry is preparing an inspection report and is committed to taking stricter actions alongside the MACC.

Loke confirmed that three Puspakom staff members have already been questioned and indicated that further inquiries might be made if necessary. Meanwhile, MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki stated that the RTD is expected to deliver a technical report on the investigation within two weeks, which will be reviewed for potential actions under the MACC Act or the Penal Code.

In an associated development, Loke announced that the ministry would soon disclose the names of companies granted licenses to conduct periodic motor vehicle inspections. Following the expiration of Puspakom's concession as the sole provider of these services on August 31, over 10 companies have applied for licenses, marking the end of Puspakom's monopoly.

Loke explained that although Puspakom's concession has ended, it can continue operations under a new operator's license. The introduction of new operators is expected to foster competition and offer consumers more options for vehicle inspections by the end of the year.