PETALING JAYA: The issue of dummy Global Positioning System (GPS) used in heavy commercial vehicles does not affect the container haulage sector, says the Association of Malaysian Hauliers.

Its secretary Mohamad Azuan Masud said this was because container hauliers operate in a highly-regulated and system-integrated environment.

“To gain access to port terminals, prime movers must have functioning GPS devices that are linked to the port terminal systems.

“This makes it virtually impossible for hauliers to operate without an active GPS,” he said when contacted.

Mohamad Azuan said container hauliers are among the most technologically advanced in Malaysia’s commercial logistics industry.

“We have long adopted best practices in the region, including GPS tracking, driver behaviour monitoring systems and soon, the advanced driver-assistance system to improve operational efficiency and safety.

“We are working closely with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the Land Public Transport Agency (Apad) to ensure smoother and safer adoption of these technologies,” he said.

Mohamad Azuan urged the Works Ministry and the Public Works Department to increase scheduled road maintenance near port areas where heavy cargo traffic is concentrated.

“As cargo volumes are projected to increase, revisiting the Weight Restriction Order alongside road infrastructure upgrades will be necessary to ensure safety and long-term sustainability,” he added.

Mohamad Azuan said the association would fully support measures by the Transport Ministry to enhance safety standards and reduce accidents involving commercial vehicles.

“We are committed to playing our part as responsible industry players,” he said.

Pan Malaysian Bus Operators Association president Datuk Ashfar Ali said all buses under them are installed with serviceable GPS devices and that their movements are constantly monitored by Apad.

“There is no question of our buses operating without a GPS or having a ghost GPS installed to deceive the authorities.

“Even when a bus breaks down and is expected not to be in use for an extended period, we would have to notify Apad.

“Hence, it is not possible to operate without the device,” he said.

Ashfar said there are buses of various roles, but only express and stage buses come under the purview of the association.