PETALING JAYA: GPS tracking devices must be installed on coaches as part of licensing requirements, says Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Following a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Deputy Prime Minister said that the issue of coaches was among the main topics of discussion, including standard operating procedures in the event of road accidents involving foreigners.
According to Ahmad Zahid, the Ministry of Transport has been tasked with monitoring the registration of such vehicles based on four set criteria.
“Among other things, the vehicle must have a valid travel agency license (TOBTAB), be equipped with a GPS device, be no older than 15 years and its driver must complete Industrial Code of Practice (ICOP) training.”
“These criteria are intended to ensure that operators operate legally while ensuring the safety of passengers,” he said.
On October 24, thirteen people, including Japanese tourists, were injured when a tour bus crashed into the rear of its trailer at KM230.3 of the southbound North-South Expressway (PLUS) near Taiping.
The meeting also decided to submit to the Committee a set policy on short-term accommodation rental activities.
He said that with an estimated 35.6 million tourists visiting the country by 2026, the policy would ensure regulatory compliance while addressing community issues such as noise complaints, lack of parking and simplifying the licensing process.
“In addition, a digital platform for STRA management has been proposed to ensure Malaysia’s competitiveness in the tourism sector,” he said.
Comments are closed.