Malaysia’s new veteran licence scheme lets ex-military drivers convert their qualifications to Class E, channelled through JPJ and Perhebat.
Malaysia to Let Armed Forces Veterans Convert Military Driving Qualifications to Class E Licence
Malaysia’s government is set to introduce a special programme for armed forces retirees and veterans to convert their existing heavy vehicle driving qualifications directly into a Class E civilian licence. The plan was announced by Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Klang Port Authority Annex Building and its combined Chinese New Year and Ramadan Iftar celebration, Loke said the initiative is a direct response to the persistent shortage of qualified heavy vehicle drivers in the logistics industry. He noted that many military retirees are in their forties and thus still physically capable of operating heavy machinery, including trucks.
Under the programme, veterans who are already qualified to drive heavy military vehicles will be able to convert those credentials to a Class E licence without having to undergo the standard licensing process. The minister called on logistics companies to play their part by opening up employment opportunities for the veterans once the programme is in place.
“I am confident many companies will be interested because former military personnel are disciplined, resilient and able to drive,” said Loke, adding that the government wants the initiative to be implemented urgently.
Loke also stated that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) already has a programme in place with the Corporation for the Affairs of Former Armed Forces Personnel (Perhebat), the agency responsible for veteran affairs, that provides a framework through which the new programme can be channelled.
The story, first reported by the Bernama news agency, was subsequently shared by Perhebat on its official Facebook page, effectively making it an official confirmation of the programme from the veteran’s body itself.
