KUCHING, September 14: Stern actions will be taken against Road Transport Department (JPJ) officers who are found issuing “lesen terbang” or “kopi-O licence” (illegally obtained licence), Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said.
Speaking to reporters after presenting approval letters to commercial vehicles and public service vehicles applicants here today, Loke said 12 JPJ staff from several states had been arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for their suspected involvement in the sale of ‘lesen terbang’.
The 12 comprises a deputy director, two assistant enforcement officer, two assistant enforcement chiefs, six enforcement assistants and one administrative assistant.
“I am taking a zero-tolerance stance towards this so called ‘lesen terbang’ or licences acquired through illegal means. I am serious when I say we will deal firmly with department officials who are found to be involved.
“Those arrested are now suspended from their duties although they have yet to be charged in court. If they are charged and convicted, their service will be terminated,” he said.
Loke emphasised that he was very serious on misconducts and corruptions involving government officers, added that such licence sold via runners and processed by JPJ officers was also an act of treason.
“They offered illegal driving licences to people who do not deserve or qualify to drive. These people never go through proper road studies in classes, training and exams. Imagine these people driving dangerously, endanger the safety of the others on the road or causing deaths.
“Yes, there is a weakness in the licensing issue. JPJ’s system requires officers to process information, and this is where our entrusted officers will take the opportunity,” Loke admitted, but added that there was no country or system without loopholes.
Acknowledging that such practices have been around for long time, Loke assured that the government would go all out against “lesen terbang” as it is a serious offence.
“It is impossible to take out the whole staff because human intervention is still needed. Therefore, we will come up with a better system based on integrity,” he said. — DayakDaily
