KUCHING – Authorities in the capital have intensified their efforts to curb road traffic violations, with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) Sarawak launching a targeted enforcement operation across the city.
The initiative, known as the Motorcycle and Foreign Driver Operations or PEWA Ops, was carried out by the Kuching JPJ Delta Team on Tuesday, 28 July 2026, aiming to enhance compliance with road laws and safeguard all road users.
The operation involved rigorous patrols in various parts of Kuching, focusing particularly on motorcycles and vehicles driven by foreign nationals. During the course of the day, enforcement officers inspected a total of 115 vehicles of different types.
The comprehensive checks were designed to identify any breaches of statutory requirements, ranging from documentation issues to technical defects in the vehicles themselves.
The results of the inspections revealed a number of infractions. Officers detected several cases where drivers were operating vehicles without a valid driving licence or the necessary vocational driving licence.
Other common offences included expired Motor Vehicle Licences, commonly referred to as LKM, and a lack of valid insurance coverage. Additionally, some vehicles were found to have technical faults that rendered them unsafe for use on public roads.
In one significant instance, a car was seized by the authorities. The vehicle was being operated by a foreign driver who failed to produce a valid driving licence upon request. This action underscores the department’s zero-tolerance approach to serious violations that pose a risk to public safety.
All enforcement actions taken, including the seizure of the vehicle and the issuance of summonses for other offences, were conducted in strict accordance with current legal provisions.
The JPJ Sarawak has stated that such operations will continue to be intensified in the coming months. The department is committed to combating road traffic violations, with a particular focus on offences involving foreign drivers who may be unfamiliar with local regulations or who deliberately flout them. The goal is to create a safer road environment for everyone, from motorcyclists to heavy vehicle operators.
Road safety remains a critical concern in urban areas, and the presence of unlicensed or uninsured drivers poses a significant threat. By conducting regular and visible enforcement activities, the JPJ hopes to deter potential offenders and encourage a culture of compliance among all road users.
The department emphasises that ignorance of the law is not an excuse, and all individuals residing in or visiting Sarawak must adhere to local traffic regulations.
Members of the public have been reminded to take personal responsibility for their legal obligations before getting behind the wheel.
It is essential for every driver and rider to ensure that their driving licence, Motor Vehicle Licence, and insurance coverage are up to date and valid. Regular checks of these documents can prevent unnecessary fines and legal complications, while also contributing to overall road safety.
The recent operation serves as a stark reminder that enforcement agencies are actively monitoring road usage. Drivers are advised to keep their documents accessible and to maintain their vehicles in good working condition.
Technical aspects of the vehicle, such as brakes, lights, and tyres, should be regularly inspected to avoid penalties and ensure the safety of oneself and others.
As Kuching continues to grow as a regional hub, the diversity of its road users increases. This makes consistent enforcement even more vital. The JPJ’s proactive stance indicates a broader strategy to manage traffic risks effectively.
Through sustained efforts and public cooperation, the department aims to reduce the incidence of accidents and violations, fostering a safer and more orderly transport system for the state.
