New MOT guidelines govern goods transport by de-controlled vehicles and pick-up trucks, covering permits and road safety.
New MOT Guidelines Clarify Permit Requirements for Goods Vehicles
The Malaysian Ministry of Transport (MOT) has released new guidelines governing the use of de-controlled vehicles and pick-up trucks for carrying goods, in a move aimed at providing greater clarity to the public, vehicle owners, and industry players. The guidelines take effect on April 1, 2026.
Issued through the Road Transport Department (JPJ), the guidelines dictate that good vehicles with a Weight by Load (BDM) not exceeding 7,500 kg are classified as de-controlled vehicles and can be used to carry the owners’ own goods without requiring a permit from the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD).
However, if the vehicles are used to transport goods belonging to third parties for rental or wage purposes, operators must obtain a Carrier’s Permit A from APAD, in accordance with the Land Public Transport Act 2010 [Act 715].
Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that the guidelines were necessary to eliminate confusion and promote more consistent enforcement across the industry.
“The purpose of this guideline is to ensure people, vehicle owners, as well as industry players have a better understanding of what is allowed under law, while avoiding misunderstandings and ensuring enforcement can be carried out more consistently,” he said.
“The government has always taken a balanced approach, simplifying the business and daily activities of the people, but at the same time ensuring road safety and law compliance remain maintained,” added Loke.
The guidelines also address the use of privately-owned pick-up trucks, which are permitted to carry goods as long as the loads do not exceed the vehicle’s permitted limit, road safety is not compromised, and the goods carried belong to the owners. Additionally, Class D licence holders are permitted to operate goods vehicles with a BDM of up to 4,000 kg, subject to compliance with road safety regulations, under the new guidelines.
MOT described the initiative as part of the government’s broader commitment to building a more organised, safe, and accountable transportation system.
