A SPECIAL enforcement operation by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) has uncovered a growing trend of unlicensed private vehicles being used illegally for commercial transport, including airport and intercity transfers, with foreign nationals among the drivers detained.
The crackdown, conducted across several high-traffic areas in central Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, led to the seizure of 10 vehicles and the detention of 10 drivers — five of whom were foreign nationals from Bangladesh, Yemen, India and Sudan.
“Some were found to be operating without valid driving licences, while others misused vehicle licences or failed to obtain the necessary public service vehicle permits,” said Kuala Lumpur JPJ Director Hamidi Adam in a press conference following the operation.
The enforcement action, which ran from 9am to 11pm, targeted known hotspots including Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Imbi, Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Walter Grenier. It involved 70 enforcement officers from JPJ Kuala Lumpur and JPJ Headquarters in Putrajaya.
The illegal transport service, locally known as prebet sapu (illegal taxis), involved luxury multi-purpose vehicles and vans, with tourists as the main clientele. In one instance, officers intercepted 35 passengers — nationals from China, Canada, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Palestine and Iraq — who were being transported to airports or tourist destinations including Melaka.
“Some tourists paid up to RM2,100 for package deals, which included accommodation and travel arranged by unlicensed agents,” said Hamidi.
The operation also uncovered a tactic whereby drivers would wait outside hotels, particularly around midday checkout periods, to offer unsolicited transport services to departing guests.
Vehicles were found to be operating under the guise of private use, without valid Public Service Vehicle (PSV) permits or operator licences.
Checks on 27 vehicles resulted in 26 summonses issued under the Road Transport Act 1987 and the Land Public Transport Act (APAD) 2010.
Offences included misuse of Motor Vehicle Licences (LKM), operating without Operator's Permission (KPA), and driving without valid licences.
“Five drivers did not possess valid driving licences, one misused the LKM, and 20 were found to be operating without KPA or proper permits,” Hamidi stated. “The offences are being investigated under Section 80 of the Road Transport Act 1987, which allows for vehicle seizure and potential forfeiture upon conviction.”
He warned vehicle owners that legal action could also be taken against those who permit their vehicles to be used for illegal commercial activities, especially by unlicensed foreign drivers.
Tour agencies were also reminded to ensure compliance with transport regulations. “Vehicles used to ferry tourists must have the correct permits and must be operated by qualified drivers. This is not only a legal requirement but a safety issue,” he said.
Hamidi reiterated that JPJ Kuala Lumpur would not compromise on road safety or legal compliance. “Ongoing monitoring and enforcement will continue to safeguard public safety and uphold the integrity of Malaysia’s transport system.”
The public has been urged to report illegal transport activities or unlicensed drivers via the MyJPJ app’s e-Aduan platform or by emailing [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). - October 12, 2025
