Transport Ministry to examine proposed automatic licence upgrade for motorcyclists

PEKAN: The proposed automatic upgrading of the B2 class motorcycle driving license to a "B" will be brought to the Transport Ministry to be examined, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said that he did not see any problem in implementing the proposal as motorcyclists with the B2 licence already have experience riding the machine.

"I don't think they need to go for another riding test because they are experienced riders and I also do not see the need to impose strict conditions.

"I will bring it to the Transport Minister first, I don't think there’s going to be a problem because it is an administrative issue only," he told reporters after flagging off 238 high-powered motorcycle riders from the Superbikers Association Malaysia in the Merdeka Kembara 66 Convoy here, today.

Also present were Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail and Association president Datuk Abdul Halim Suleiman.

Earlier, Abdul Halim submitted a proposal paper for an automatic upgrade from class B2 to B for motorcyclists who have not committed serious traffic offences within three years after obtaining the B2 licence.

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) classified class B2 driving licence for motorcycles not exceeding 250 cc while class B involves motorcycles exceeding 500 cc.

The 1,366km-Kembara Merdeka 66 programme, covering Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Perak, Kedah, Penang and the Klang Valley, starts today and will end on Aug 31.

Kembara Merdera, the brainchild of Ahmad Zahid, is aimed at fuelling the patriotic spirit and fostering friendship between high-powered motorcycle owners, villagers and young motorcycle riders.