Lorry drivers under scrutiny as public voices growing concern over road provocations

SHAH ALAM - Members of the public are urging stronger and fairer enforcement after a rising number of complaints about lorry drivers allegedly bullying other motorists and provoking dangerous situations on Malaysian roads.

The behaviour of some lorry drivers, accused of driving aggressively and provoking other motorists due to the size of their vehicles, has sparked increasing concern across the country.

Primary school teacher Norafizah Abdul Razak, 56, said she frequently encountered lorry drivers who showed little regard for road users in both urban and rural areas.

She added that many have "attitude problems" and often refused to give way, making daily travel stressful for others.

Norafizah said some companies continued operating on weekends despite regulations that prohibited such activity.

"In my village in Jerantut, the route is indeed frequently used by lorries, but on Saturdays and Sundays they are not allowed to be on the road. According to the rules, the Road Transport Department (RTD) does not permit it.

"In order to chase their ‘trips’ delivering oil palm, sand and other loads, they still operate, to the point where narrow roads become difficult for others to pass.

"So lorry companies must pay attention to this issue, otherwise they will continue inconveniencing the public indefinitely," she said.

Entrepreneur Rani Wemel, 64, shared similar concerns, saying she has repeatedly witnessed lorry drivers racing along the far right lane of highways, despite being required to keep left and follow the speed limit.

She said these incidents often occur during peak hours.

"When in fact, they are not supposed to operate or make any ‘trips’ during peak hours, including using the right lane of the highway," Rani said.

She added that such behaviour was especially common along routes in the Klang Valley, Putrajaya and Seremban.

Rani supported RTD’s move to ramp up enforcement against errant drivers and haulage companies, saying the action will benefit other motorists.

She also suggested that Malaysia adopted speed limiter devices for lorries, similar to systems used in developed countries.

"When drivers press the pedal, the lorry cannot speed up because the speed limit has already been set.

"This initiative is very good and has the potential to reduce the number of road accidents," she said.

Retiree Chia Siew Hong, 61, said stronger enforcement was necessary but stressed the importance of fairness.

"RTD’s action is indeed good because it offers some relief to other road users, but it must be truly fair for the companies and lorry drivers.

"We must consider things from the perspective of companies and drivers as well.

"When strict action is taken, will their livelihood be affected after daily operations are restricted? Many claim they have been victimised by such enforcement," he said.