Transport minister says tonto threats will not stop JPJ action on overloaded vehicles, with 3,604 heavy vehicles penalised in late 2024.
KUALA LUMPUR: The government will not be deterred by ‘tontos’, or informants who tip off operators, from enforcing laws against overloaded heavy vehicles.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the ministry is seeking funds to equip enforcement officers with body cameras and firearms for their safety.
“There are indeed challenges posed by these tontos, but we cannot give in to such threats when enforcing the law, as this concerns road safety and human lives,” he told the Dewan Rakyat.
He was replying to a question on enforcement challenges and the status of the demerit points system.
Loke confirmed the demerit system remains but will be reviewed to ensure fairness, especially for drivers pressured by operators.
He stressed enforcement now also targets companies and operators who breach regulations, not just drivers.
Companies involved in overloading may face vehicle ownership suspension and operating licence revocation for repeat offences.
In response to another question, Loke said action was taken against 3,604 heavy vehicles for overloading between October 14 and December 31 last year.
Cases included serious overloads exceeding 70%, which compromise safety, stability, braking and infrastructure.
Preliminary police data shows 232 fatal accidents involving heavy vehicles in 2023, rising to 260 in 2024.
The figure declined to 163 in 2025, providing an early indication that strengthened enforcement has helped reduce risks.
