Transport Ministry orders immediate ban on 3-pin sockets, USB ports in buses

KUALA LUMPUR: All bus operators must immediately stop using 3-pin electrical sockets and USB ports on their buses, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

This directive comes 19 days after a young man tragically died while charging his phone on an express bus at the Penang Sentral bus terminal.

Bernama quoted Loke as saying that one of the causes of electrical shock incidents in buses is wrong wiring by non-certified parties.

Loke said a comprehensive set of guidelines on electrical wiring in buses would be developed within six months.

The Transport Minister explained that the process would take time as it involved engaging stakeholders and making regulatory changes, in addition to internal ministry procedures and approval from the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC).

“Following the tragic incident, it is clear that comprehensive guidelines on bus electrical wiring are needed. This is a gap we have identified,” said Loke during a press conference in Parliament earlier today.

Currently, he said buses were not required to adhere to electrical wiring standards.

“While there are mechanical and other safety requirements that must be met before approval from the Road Transport Department (JPJ) is granted, there are no regulations for electrical wiring.

“This incident, where a teenager lost his life due to electrocution, is deeply saddening but has raised awareness about the urgent need for proper guidelines,” Loke added.

He stressed that public safety is a top priority, with the government committed to tightening monitoring and enforcement to prevent such incidents in the future.

“To mitigate risks and ensure passenger safety, the Transport Ministry is enhancing safety standards and enforcement measures related to electrical wiring and associated equipment in vehicles,” he said.

Loke assured the public that stricter regulations and improved oversight would be implemented to ensure safer public transport services.