Kuching: The Commercial Vehicles Licensing Board (LPKP) Sarawak has called on the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak to formally review the permissible weight limits for lorries, in line with the department’s own road specifications.
LPKP Sarawak Chairman, Michael Kong Feng Nian, said many major roads in the state, including the Pan-Borneo Highway, were designed to withstand loads of up to 53 tonnes, much higher than the current 38-tonne limit.
“With this revision, lorry operators can no longer use the existing restrictions as an excuse for higher transportation costs.
“In fact, they have assured us that if the limits are raised, they will comply strictly and accept full legal consequences including heavy penalties and even suspension of licences – if caught repeatedly overloading,” he stressed during a courtesy call to the Director of JKR Sarawak, Dr Cassidy Morris.
Also present were members of the LPKP Sarawak board, including representatives from JPJ Sarawak and PDRM.
Kong said that the meeting also discussed ways to simplify the application process for super-heavy vehicles, which can carry up to 250 tonnes.
These vehicles are often used to transport large generators for Sarawak Energy, specialised oil & gas equipment, or heavy construction materials for government projects, utilising advanced transportation methods such as multi-axle trailers.
“Since these deliveries are ultimately for the benefit of the state and the people, it is therefore only reasonable for all parties to explore measures that will ease the process for such essential movements,” he said.
JKR Sarawak, he added, was receptive to the proposals and has committed to working together with LPKP Sarawak on the matter.
“Moving forward, LPKP Sarawak will continue to work closely with JKR Sarawak and other stakeholders to support the commercial vehicle industry, safeguard road safety, and contribute to Sarawak’s economic development,” Michael said.
