Malaysia’s Ministry of Transport has introduced strict requirements for motorcycles modified to carry goods, aiming to improve road safety, insurance coverage, and legal compliance — particularly for rural communities and small-scale farmers.
New Requirement: VTA Certification Now Mandatory
Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that all motorcycles altered to carry goods must obtain Vehicle Type Approval (VTA) from the Road Transport Department (JPJ).
Without VTA, these motorcycles are:
• Considered illegal
• Ineligible for road tax
• Not covered by insurance
• Subject to full liability in accidents
Legal & Safety Consequences
Motorcycle owners operating non-certified goods carriers risk:
• Criminal and civil liability in the event of an accident.
• Loss of insurance claims due to unapproved modifications.
• Roadside enforcement and vehicle impoundment.
JPJ Support for Compliance
To ease the transition, JPJ’s Automotive Engineering Division will:
• Offer technical guidance
• Assist especially rural and agricultural users unfamiliar with VTA procedures
• Provide clarity on permitted modifications
Examples of Legal Vehicle Options
The Minister clarified that:
• Three-wheeled motorcycles (e.g. with sidecars, Category L4) can legally carry goods if registered and certified as goods vehicles.
• All modifications must meet engineering safety standards and receive official approval.
Steps for Motorcycle Owners
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Why This Matters?
• For Rural Users & Farmers: Legalizes essential vehicles for livelihood and ensures insurance coverage.
• For Public Safety: Prevents unregulated, unsafe motorcycles from operating on public roads.
• For Regulatory Compliance: Establishes clear pathways for vehicle approval.
Reference: BERNAMA News – Malaysia Enforces Motorcycle VTA Standards
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