The Terengganu Road Transport Department (RTD/JPJ) uncovered that foreigners, predominantly Rohingya, have been using rented private vehicles illegally to ferry passengers, transport children, and haul goods including construction materials [1, 2]. These drivers mostly lack competent driving licenses and valid vehicle ownership documents, violating Malaysian transport laws [1, 2].
Between June 1 and June 13, during Operation Foreign Nationals (Ops PEWA), RTD seized 114 vehicles and issued 559 summonses for various offences related to these illegal transport activities [1, 2]. Of the vehicles seized, 93 involved Rohingya drivers without valid driving or ownership documents [1, 2].
RTD Director Mohd Zamri Samion said some individuals from this group are also moving commercial goods to support contractor and construction work, expanding their illegal operations beyond passenger transport [2]. He emphasized, "We want to send a clear message that strict action will be taken against foreign drivers who break the law, and even against vehicle owners who are found to be in cahoots with vehicle rental companies" [1].
Investigations revealed that some local Malaysians collude by renting out vehicles to the foreign drivers for profit, including repurchasing seized vehicles at auctions and then renting them back to the same groups [2]. Holders of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) cards are legally prohibited from purchasing vehicles or holding formal employment in Malaysia, complicating their status [2]. Mohd Zamri reminded, "Holders of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) cards are legally prohibited from purchasing assets such as vehicles or holding formal employment in Malaysia" [2].
RTD has conducted undercover operations, including visits to villages, to detect foreigners driving without valid licenses or documents [1]. A recent incident of dangerous driving by a Rohingya driver resulted in the death of a motorcyclist, underscoring safety concerns linked to illegal operations [1].
