BINTULU – Road safety enforcement efforts in the central region of Sarawak received a significant boost this week as the Road Transport Department (JPJ) conducted a large-scale operation in Bintulu.
On Tuesday, 28 July 2026, officers from the Bintulu Branch JPJ set up a static checkpoint along Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi, targeting motorcycles and vehicles fitted with High-Intensity Discharge (HID) or Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting systems that may not comply with regulatory standards.
The primary objective of the operation was to enhance compliance with road traffic laws and ensure that all vehicles on the road are in safe, roadworthy conditions.
By focusing on specific technical aspects of vehicles, particularly lighting modifications, the department aims to reduce hazards caused by improper vehicle setups that can dazzle other drivers or obscure visibility.
During the course of the operation, enforcement personnel inspected a substantial number of vehicles. A total of 355 units of various types were subjected to thorough checks.
The scale of the inspection highlights the department’s commitment to maintaining high standards of road safety and ensuring that every vehicle meets the specified legal requirements before being allowed on public highways.
The inspections yielded several infractions across different categories. Officers detected numerous cases where drivers were operating vehicles without a valid driving licence. Other common offences included expired Motor Vehicle Licences (LKM) and a lack of valid insurance coverage.
Additionally, many vehicles were found to have expired PUSPAKOM inspection certificates, indicating that they had not undergone the mandatory periodic safety checks required by law.
Technical violations were also prominent among the detected offences. Some vehicles were found to have modifications that did not adhere to prescribed specifications, particularly regarding lighting systems.
The use of non-compliant HID or LED lights can pose serious risks to other road users, especially at night, by causing glare and reducing overall visibility. Such modifications are strictly regulated to ensure uniformity and safety on the roads.
All offences identified during the operation were dealt with in accordance with current legal provisions. Enforcement actions included the issuance of summonses and, where necessary, further penalties as dictated by the law.
The JPJ emphasised that these measures are not intended to punish but to educate and enforce compliance for the greater good of public safety.
The JPJ Sarawak has announced that it will continue to intensify such enforcement operations on a continuous basis. The department remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that every road user adheres to established laws.
Regular checkpoints and surprise inspections are expected to remain a key feature of their strategy to combat traffic violations and promote a culture of responsibility among drivers and riders.
Members of the public have been urged to take proactive steps to ensure their vehicles are legally compliant. Before heading out on the road, drivers and riders must verify that their driving licence, Motor Vehicle Licence, and insurance coverage are all valid and up to date.
Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure that the vehicle has a current PUSPAKOM inspection certificate and that its technical condition, including lighting and braking systems, meets the required specifications.
Ignoring these requirements can lead to severe consequences, including fines, vehicle impoundment, and increased risk of accidents. The department stresses that road safety is a shared responsibility.
By adhering to regulations, individuals contribute to a safer environment for everyone, from pedestrians to commercial vehicle operators.
As Bintulu continues to develop as a key industrial and residential hub, the volume of traffic is likely to increase. This makes consistent enforcement even more critical.
The recent operation serves as a clear message that authorities are vigilant and prepared to take action against any form of non-compliance.
Through sustained efforts and public cooperation, the goal of zero accidents and full legal adherence remains within reach for the state of Sarawak.
