KUCHING: Road tax renewal services for private vehicles with an engine capacity of 2,000cc and above are to be halted at post offices throughout Sarawak, effective Sept 1 (today).
State Road Transport Department (JPJ) director Mohd Syafiq Anas Abdullah said the instruction that has been issued by his department to suspend the service, will not impact vehicles with less than 2,000cc engine capacity.
Mohd Syafiq added the move was made following the government’s recent decision on the matter and would reveal further details soon.
“We are waiting for Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook to issue a formal statement on the matter in a day or two.
“But in the meantime, all road tax renewal services for both private and company-owned vehicles with an engine capacity of 2,000cc and above such as four-wheel drives and luxury vehicles have to be done at our offices (JPJ/UTC).”
He told reporters this after flagging-off the Merdeka Convoy in conjunction with this year’s National Day celebration at the JPJ headquarters, Jalan Kuching-Serian, yesterday.
“The official statement (on the suspension) will be released, of course. If there is any information we will inform everyone,” added Mohd Syafiq.
He refused to comment if the move was made to curb the habit of motorists deliberately attempting to avoid paying a higher road tax, in the case of the East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak) connection.
As such, it was learnt that the services would be discontinued at all post offices in Sarawak, Sabah, Langkawi and Labuan.
Meanwhile, the Merdeka Convoy (200km distance) saw over 100 riders riding from the JPJ headquarters here to Telok Melano.
The event served as a platform to strengthen the relationship between the department and the community, while at the same time instilling the values of independence and love for the country specifically among the staff.
In addition to celebrating National Day, it also aims to promote road safety and responsible driving behaviour among all road users.
Also present was state JPJ deputy director Erick Jusiang.
