Analyst warns Malaysia’s Kejara demerit system reform could fail if summons discounts return, stressing enforcement discipline and transparency
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s accelerated rollout of the revamped Kejara demerit system is feasible but its success hinges on political and enforcement discipline once public pressure rises, says MY Mobility Vision CEO Wan Md Hazlin Agyl Wan Hassan.
“The revised timeline is tight but achievable. The key flaw in the old system was that demerit points only took effect after motorists paid their summons.
“The new plan applies points immediately but this requires perfect integration between MySikap, MyJPJ and the police summons systems. Any hiccup or stalled legal amendments could slow the rollout,“ he said.
(MY Mobility Vision is a Malaysian advocacy initiative focused on improving the country’s public transport system through policy advocacy, collaborative projects and innovative solutions).
Wan Md Hazlin warned that technology is the easy part – the real test comes during enforcement.
“Once motorists cannot renew their licences or road tax due to unpaid summonses, pressure to soften the rules will be immense.
“If we fall back into offering discounts or amnesties, the reform collapses instantly.”
He said discount campaigns conditioned Malaysians to delay payment.
“Ending discounts is necessary to break this pattern but it’s the certainty of consequences – instant demerit points and blocked renewals – that truly changes driving behaviour.”
Transparency, he added, is crucial for public trust. Motorists must easily access summons and demerit points on MyJPJ, while anonymised data on suspensions, summons volume and high-risk areas should be published.
“Countries with successful demerit systems publish such data because it builds trust. Without it, people will see Kejara as a revenue tool; with it, they recognise it as a genuine safety effort.”
Wan Md Hazlin advocated a strategic, behaviour-based approach rather than simply raising fines.
“Internationally, smarter penalties work best. Singapore lowers thresholds for repeat offenders. Australia implements ‘good-behaviour periods’ where any slip triggers a longer suspension. The United Kingdom links options to points management,” he said.
He stressed that repeat offenders remain the biggest road threat.
“They need stricter oversight. Ordinary drivers shouldn’t be punished excessively but habitual violators must face consequences to protect everyone else,” he said, proposing a hybrid model that is firm yet fair.
“The old system allowed people to avoid consequences by not paying fines, endangering our roads. The new system closes that loophole. Most Malaysians will experience clearer rules, faster notifications and safer roads. The pressure falls on repeat offenders – exactly how a safety system should work.”
He added that driving is a privilege, not a right. Safer roads require consistent enforcement.
“No discounts, no exceptions – that is the only way forward,“ he said.
