The transport ministry is willing to consider a scrappage incentive for old motorcycles, but says local manufacturers must lead the initiative
SEREMBAN: The Ministry of Transport is open to implementing an incentive programme for the disposal of old motorcycles. Minister Anthony Loke said the initiative would require cooperation from local motorcycle manufacturers.
He stated the programme would need active industry participation, similar to old car disposal schemes run by national carmakers. “So far, there is no incentive for the disposal of old motorcycles,” Loke told reporters.
“I recently received a letter from the Malaysian Motorcycle and Scooter Association, but manufacturers themselves need to take the initiative.” He explained that previous programmes for cars were introduced because manufacturers took the lead.
The condition for any such scheme is that the vehicles must be locally assembled. “Assistance is only given to local manufacturing companies,” Loke added.
He was responding to a proposal for a programme similar to the government’s existing car scrappage grant. That initiative offers a matching grant of up to RM4,000 to encourage owners to scrap vehicles over 20 years old.
Loke advised motorcyclists to prioritise safety by using helmets that meet required standards. He urged riders not to wait for a free helmet replacement programme before replacing unsafe gear.
He noted that observations from helmet campaigns found many riders were still using helmets that no longer provided adequate protection. Helmets remain the most important safety equipment for motorcyclists.
Separately, Loke said the implementation of smart lanes on highways is aimed at reducing peak-hour congestion. He stressed that safety considerations must remain a priority.
The matter would need further study, including data on accidents involving the lanes. “A study needs to be carried out before the matter is brought to the Works Ministry,” he said.
The smart lane initiative falls under the jurisdiction of the Malaysian Highway Authority. That agency operates under the Ministry of Works.
The Sun Malaysia
