Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that from October 1, 2024, commercial vehicles without Speed Limitation Devices (SLDs) will fail inspections and thus be barred from the road. The system will be enforced in phases to reduce fatal accidents involving heavy vehicles like buses and lorries.
Loke said while some industry players may cite cost concerns, road safety must take precedence. “I urge all MPs to support the policy. Any opposition should be met with the argument that human life comes first,” he said during Dewan Rakyat’s Q&A session.
SLD Implementation Timeline:
- Phase 1 (Oct 1, 2024): Functionality check for vehicles manufactured after Jan 1, 2015.
- Phase 2 (Jan 1, 2026): Activation of built-in ECU SLDs for vehicles made before Jan 1, 2015.
- Phase 3 (July 1, 2026): Retrofit installation of SLDs for remaining vehicles, subject to Road Transport Department approval.
SLDs are automatic speed control systems that electronically regulate vehicle speed through the ECU, preventing overspeeding without shutting off the engine.
The policy applies to goods vehicles over 3,500kg and passenger vehicles over 5,000kg carrying more than 8 people.
In response to additional safety measures proposed by MP Fathul Huzir Ayob, Loke said the ministry is studying the integration of Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), real-time tracking, and black box technology. Stakeholder consultation will be part of the process.
