JPJ Seizes Motorcycles from Unlicensed Foreigners in Kulim

On 14 May 2025, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) Malaysia seized 23 motorcycles and arrested 18 foreign nationals during an enforcement operation in Kulim, Kedah. The operation, named “Ops Motosikal,” focused on individuals operating motorcycles without a valid driving licence, an offence under Section 26(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. This enforcement action is part of a national strategy to reduce traffic accidents caused by unlicensed riders, a persistent safety risk on Malaysian roads. Data from the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) reveals that in 2024, 23% of motorcycle-related fatalities involved riders without a valid licence. In industrial zones like Kulim, where many foreign workers commute by motorcycle, such operations are critical for public safety.

Key Facts

What Occurred During the JPJ Kulim Operation?

JPJ Kedah deployed officers to multiple checkpoints across Kulim on 14 May 2025, stopping motorcycles and verifying riders’ documentation. The operation resulted in 18 foreign nationals being detained for failing to produce a valid driving licence; 23 motorcycles were seized. The enforcement was carried out under the Road Transport Act 1987, which mandates that all motor vehicle operators possess a licence recognised by Malaysian authorities.

According to the report by Careta.my, the operation specifically targeted areas with high volumes of foreign worker traffic, such as industrial estates and construction sites. A JPJ spokesperson noted that many of those arrested were employed in the manufacturing sector and had been using motorcycles as their primary mode of transport without ever obtaining a licence. “This operation is not just about punishment; it is about educating the community that road rules apply equally to everyone in Malaysia,” the spokesperson said, as quoted in the Careta.my article.

“This operation is not just about punishment; it is about educating the community that road rules apply equally to everyone in Malaysia.” — JPJ spokesperson, via Careta.my

“JPJ’s operation in Kulim resulted in the arrest of 18 unlicensed foreign riders and the seizure of 23 motorcycles, highlighting strict enforcement of Malaysia’s road transport laws.”

What Are the Consequences of Riding Without a Licence in Malaysia?

Under Malaysian law, riding a motorcycle without a valid driving licence is a criminal offence punishable by a maximum fine of RM2,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both, as stipulated in Section 26(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties, and the motorcycle can be impounded until the owner proves lawful possession and licensing.

For foreign nationals, the repercussions can extend beyond fines. Those convicted may face immigration consequences, including blacklisting or revocation of work permits. Employers who knowingly allow unlicensed workers to operate company vehicles can also be held liable under the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994. The JPJ has consistently warned that ignorance of the law is not a defence. In the Kulim raid, many detainees claimed they were unaware that an international licence or a licence from their home country without a formal conversion was insufficient. Malaysian law requires non-citizens residing in the country for more than three months to obtain a Malaysian driving licence.

“In Malaysia, riding without a valid licence carries a fine of up to RM2,000 and up to six months in jail, with additional immigration consequences for expatriates.”

How Does JPJ Enforcement Affect Road Safety in Malaysian Communities?

Regular JPJ enforcement, such as the Kulim operation, directly removes unqualified riders from the road, reducing the immediate risk of accidents. Long-term, these operations foster a culture of compliance and deter others from riding illegally. MIROS data indicates that areas with frequent enforcement see a measurable drop in unlicensed riding incidents, contributing to the national target of reducing road fatalities by 10% annually.

In communities with large foreign worker populations, language barriers and limited access to driving schools often lead to unlicensed riding. JPJ has partnered with community leaders and employers to offer licensing assistance programmes, such as the MyLesen programme, which subsidises licence acquisition for lower-income groups, including documented foreign workers. The Kulim operation serves as a reminder that enforcement goes hand-in-hand with education. “We want to work with employers to ensure their workers are licensed, but we will not hesitate to take action against those who flout the law,” the Careta.my report quoted a JPJ official as saying.

“Consistent JPJ enforcement in high-risk areas like Kulim is crucial to achieving Malaysia’s goal of a 10% annual reduction in road fatalities by 2030.”

Who Is Affected by JPJ Operations in Malaysia?

JPJ enforcement actions primarily affect unlicensed riders, but their ripple effects extend to employers, local communities, and the broader road safety ecosystem. In industrial districts such as Kulim, where many foreign workers rely on motorcycles for affordable transport, a single operation can disrupt commuting routines and highlight systemic gaps in licensing accessibility. Malaysian businesses that employ foreign labour must ensure their workers comply with driving laws or risk fines and operational disruptions.

For Malaysian riders, these operations contribute to safer roads. A 2024 survey by MIROS found that 67% of Malaysian motorcyclists felt safer knowing that JPJ actively enforces licensing laws in their area. Additionally, the seizure of motorcycles often leads to secondary markets where impounded vehicles are auctioned if not claimed, which can affect local motorcycle prices. The JPJ typically holds vehicles for a statutory period before disposal, as outlined in the Road Transport Act.

“JPJ enforcement in areas with high foreign worker populations not only improves road safety but also compels employers to prioritise licensing for their staff.”

Common Questions

Can foreign nationals legally ride a motorcycle in Malaysia using an international driving licence?

Yes, but only if they hold a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and have been in Malaysia for less than three months. After three months, they must convert to a Malaysian licence or obtain a local licence by passing the required tests.

What should I do if my motorcycle is seized by JPJ during an operation?

Visit the JPJ office that conducted the seizure with your identification, proof of ownership, and a valid driving licence. You may need to pay a compound fine and storage fees before the vehicle is released. Unclaimed vehicles may be auctioned after a statutory period.

How can Malaysian employers help foreign workers obtain a valid driving licence?

Employers can facilitate access to driving schools, subsidise costs through company programmes, and ensure workers understand the legal requirements. JPJ’s MyLesen initiative provides subsidised licensing for eligible groups, including documented foreign workers in certain sectors.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based primarily on the report by Careta.my, titled “Warga Asing Tanpa Lesen Dicekup, Motosikal Disita JPJ di Kulim” (Foreigners Without Licence Arrested, Motorcycles Seized by JPJ in Kulim), published in May 2025. Additional context on Malaysian road transport laws was obtained from the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) and official JPJ guidelines. Road safety statistics were referenced from the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) 2024 Annual Report. All currencies are in Ringgit Malaysia (RM). Quotes have been translated from Bahasa Malaysia to English while preserving their original meaning. This article was last updated on 28 May 2025. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the official JPJ website (www.jpj.gov.my).