PUTRAJAYA, Aug 2 (Bernama) -- A special transition programme will be introduced to Malaysian Driving Licence (LMM) Class B1 and Class B2 holders to obtain a Class B LMM starting October 1.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said that one of the conditions to sit for the transition programme is to be an active Class B1 or Class B2 LMM holder for a continuous period of at least 10 years.
"This condition is to ensure the level of competence and experience of driving a motorcycle for any individual before switching to a high-powered motorcycle," he said during a press conference after the monthly assembly ceremony and the launch of the 2024 Merdeka month at the Transport Ministry today.
Any candidate who undergoes the special transition programme will be charged RM160 to cover the operating costs involved in the driving institute (IM).
Loke said the candidate had to attend circuit training for two hours and pass the adaptation to motorcycles with 500cc and above at the IM involving a practical riding programme, safe driving information, and information on driving and operating high-powered motorcycles.
Previously, the cost of obtaining a Class B LLM was RM900 to undergo two hours theory class and circuit training for 9.5 hours.
The applicant must be free from any blacklist, arrears of summonses, restrictions on transactions, record of conviction for serious offences, or any pending matter under the Road Transport Act 1987 .
In addition, individuals need to make a self-declaration of healthy body, mind and body.
He added that the verification of the level of ability to operate a powerful motorcycle by the Qualified Training Officer of the Road Transport Department in IM.
"This verification is very important to ensure the level of competence and ability of a person to operate a powerful motorcycle in order to increase the level of safety of the individual's driving," Loke said.
The special transitional programme does not have an end period and will continue until a certain time to be announced later.
Meanwhile, the minister said Class B1 LMM is for riding motorcycles not exceeding 500cc will be merged with Class B.
"This merger was determined after taking into account that the demand for Class B1 LMM is too low every year as the people continue to choose B Class only licence," he said.
Currently, there are over 10 million Class B2 LMM holders in the country.
Loke said that by obtaining a Class B LMM, individuals are eligible to drive motorcycles of all engine power and are not limited to 499cc and below for Class B1.
Existing B1 licence holders can choose to remain in the relevant category or can undergo a special programme to obtain a Class B licence.
— Bernama
