What does the Road Transport Department say about its limited enforcement power?

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The Road Transport Department Acknowledges Legal Constraints on High-Powered Motorcycle Licences for 16-Year-Olds

The Road Transport Department (RTD) has stated that its authority is constrained by existing legislation regarding the minimum age for obtaining licences to operate high-powered motorcycles. According to Article 39 of the Road Transport Act, individuals as young as 16 are legally permitted to apply for a 'B' full licence, which covers motorcycles with engine capacities of 250cc and above. The RTD director-general, Datuk Seri Nadzri Siron, indicated that the department has no discretionary power to alter this legal provision.
Legal Framework Dictates Minimum Age

The current legal framework, specifically Article 39 of the Road Transport Act, establishes 16 years as the minimum age requirement for individuals to apply for a 'B' full licence. This licence category is designated for operating motorcycles with an engine capacity of 250cc or more. Nadzri Siron has explicitly stated that the RTD's ability to enforce stricter age limits for these licences is restricted by this existing law.
Licensing Process Includes Training

Despite the legal allowance for 16-year-olds to apply for 'B' full licences, Nadzri Siron pointed out that obtaining such a licence is not a simple process. Applicants are required to complete a series of practical classes and seminars as part of the licensing procedure. This suggests that while the age threshold is set by law, the process itself involves a structured learning component.
Department Welcomes Legal Reviews

The RTD has indicated a willingness to embrace changes to the law concerning the minimum age for operating high-powered motorcycles. Nadzri Siron expressed that if lawmakers decide to amend the current legislation, the department would welcome such a review. This sentiment aligns with calls from road safety experts, such as those at the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros), to re-evaluate the age limit for riders of powerful motorcycles.

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What does the Road Transport Department say about its limited enforcement power?

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