KUALA LUMPUR: Companies looking to provide vehicle inspection services can make official applications by Oct 31, says Anthony Loke.

The Transport Minister said applications could be made via the ministry or the Road Transport Department (JPJ) websites, adding that two companies had submitted applications.

“The response has been very positive so far. We will evaluate each application and announce the successful applicants soon,” he told a press conference yesterday.

Last year, the government decided not to extend Puspakom’s concession as the sole provider of vehicle inspection services.

In line with the move, a new mechanism was introduced whereby qualified vehicle inspection companies will be allowed to enter the market.

The move will end three decades of monopoly by Puspakom, which was appointed by the government in 1994 to undertake all mandatory inspections of commercial and private vehicles.

Under the new mechanism, Loke said Puspakom would be the first company approved to provide vehicle inspection services.

“Puspakom has been operating all this while, so they have received their licence, but other companies will be given as well, as long as they abide by the set guidelines and requirements.

“They (Puspakom) will continue their operations as usual, but will have to compete with other qualified industry players,” he said.

Loke also said Puspakom had given their commitment to continue operating its 54 centres nationwide.

On applications received before Oct 31, Loke said the processing will begin even before the deadline comes.

“If they make their applications now, we will start evaluating them.

“If approved, the licence can be issued before the deadline,” he said, adding that applications would be reopened again at a later date if needed.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/27/apply-for-new-vehicle-inspection-by-oct-31