Govt reviewing logistics vehicle replacement policy to enhance road safety, says Loke

REMBAU: The Transport Ministry is reviewing the policy on the replacement of vehicles used in logistics services to improve road safety, says Anthony Loke.

"We want to encourage the purchase of new lorries," the Transport Minister told a press conference here today.

"A more comprehensive policy will be introduced to guide the private sector, particularly logistics and transportation companies, in investing in new lorries.

"We are currently reviewing how best to implement this policy," he said, adding that he would provide more details on the implementation soon.

In his speech at an environmental, social and governance (ESG) programme here earlier, Loke said it was important for the government to encourage the automotive industry to expand into the assembly of electric buses and lorries to promote environmentally friendly and sustainable vehicles.

The programme was in conjunction with the opening of an electric vehicle assembly plant and the Careplus Mall here by Negri Sembilan exco member Nicole Tan Lee Koon.

"One of our main priorities is to encourage the (replacement) of commercial vehicles, as we are aware that... outdated vehicles on the road pose significant risks to public safety.

"We will introduce policies and incentives to encourage private companies to invest in new vehicles.

"The maintenance costs and fuel consumption of older vehicles are also higher.

"Most importantly, this addresses road safety. We hope that investors in manufacturing plants will focus on the assembly of buses and lorries," said Loke.