KUCHING: Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen has urged the federal government to reconsider the immediate enforcement of strict weight limits for tipper trucks and cement mixers in Sarawak, warning that such action could paralyse the industry and affect the livelihood of many operators.
In an appeal letter to Minister Of Transport, Anthony Loke said the recent announcement on strict enforcement against trucks carrying overloaded cargo had caused great concern and despair among tipper truck and cement mixer owners and drivers in Sarawak.
According to Chong, the permitted weight (BDM) for tipper trucks and cement mixers in Sarawak is much lower than that in West Malaysia. With the current limit, he said the amount of sand, gravel and earth that can be carried by tipper trucks is less than half of their original bucket capacity.
He explained that for decades, most tipper trucks had been modified to increase the height of their buckets to carry more load per trip. Although such modification is against existing regulations under the Road Transport Act 1987, many operators were forced to do so in order to survive in a highly competitive industry.
“This practice has gone on openly for more than 20 years. If strict enforcement of permitted weight and bucket measurements is carried out immediately, all tipper trucks in Sarawak will be compelled to stop operation,” he said.
Chong pointed out that for cement mixers, although the design allows a load of 10 cubic metres of cement, the current permitted weight in Sarawak only allows a load of 2.4 cubic metres.
While acknowledging that the existing overloading issue has resulted in wear and tear on vehicles, safety risks to drivers and other road users, road damage and corruption, Chong said an abrupt implementation of the new enforcement would bring the industry to a standstill.
He said the owners and drivers are willing to comply with the policy for the good of the industry, but they are appealing for some leeway and time to make the necessary adjustments.
Chong, therefore, appealed to the government to first increase the permitted weight (BDM) for tipper trucks and cement mixers in Sarawak to be on par with West Malaysia or according to the safety specifications of individual vehicles before enforcing the rule. He also urged that a grace period of up to three months be given for operators to restore their trucks to their original specifications.
In addition, he proposed that the law be amended to penalise the consignees of cargoes in trucks found to be carrying loads exceeding the permitted weight, saying, “When the buying stops, the malpractice stops.”
Chong said he hopes the government will consider these appeals and make an official announcement to ensure clarity and consistency in enforcement among JPJ officers.
By Connie Chieng