KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 7 — Owners of seized luxury vehicles must first settle all dues, including road tax, insurance, and compounds, before their cars can be released, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
The seizures were carried out under existing laws, with no exemptions, despite reports that some owners were willing to pay a RM300 fine, as it was cheaper than the annual road tax.
“Vehicles that are seized due to expired road tax and insurance will only be released after all payments are settled.
“This includes road tax, insurance coverage, and compound fines. There are no shortcuts,” he told the press after launching the Pandasafe programme by food delivery company Foodpanda today.
Loke added that many owners mistakenly believe that paying the RM300 compound is enough, and stressed that strict enforcement is necessary to instil a sense of responsibility, particularly when it comes to road safety.
When asked if the government plans to raise the compound for such offences, he said the Transport Ministry is reviewing the proposal, but any increase would require amendments to existing legislation.
The minister also confirmed that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) has been carrying out vehicle seizures as part of ongoing enforcement against non-compliant owners.
Previously, it was reported that the JPJ had identified over 1,000 luxury vehicles in Malaysia with expired road tax for extended periods.
Among the vehicles flagged were Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Porsches, some reportedly owned by celebrities and prominent business figures, who claimed the cars were only used as ‘weekend cars’.
