DIGITAL ROAD TAX Display AND LICENCE EXPLAINED

The recent announcement regarding the dispensation for private vehicles from displaying their motor vehicle licenses (road tax) on their windshields has evoked a spectrum of reactions.

While some have expressed reservations about the decision, citing concerns such as the absence of internet connectivity in certain areas, others have welcomed it with open arms.

FMT delves deeper into the plan and the MyJPJ app to gain a clearer understanding of its implementation.

Who stands to benefit from this exemption?

Currently, this exemption applies solely to privately owned vehicles (both cars and motorcycles) belonging to Malaysian citizens. Other vehicles (such as commercial, company-owned, public service vehicles like e-hailing, and those owned by foreigners) will be included in subsequent phases of the rollout.

Why opt for digitization?

Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook asserts that this transition aims to alleviate congestion and long queues at JPJ counters, as drivers will no longer need to physically collect copies at these locations. However, he clarifies that this shift does not absolve road users from the obligation to renew their road tax and licenses.

The MyJPJ app:

Motorists are encouraged to download the MyJPJ mobile application to access their digital motor vehicle licenses and driving permits. This app enables users to verify personal and vehicle-related information stored in JPJ’s database, including driving licenses, road tax details, driving test results, summons, and even information about stolen vehicles.

Addressing concerns raised by road users via a Facebook post, Minister Loke reassured them that downloading the app remains optional. He emphasized that authorities can still access information even if individuals choose not to use the app.

Following the announcement, some road users have reported encountering glitches with the app. Minister Loke attributed this to high traffic and assured that efforts are underway to rectify the issues.

Public Acceptance and Privacy Concerns

• Mixed Reactions: While some embrace the digital change, others express concerns about its limitations and potential privacy risks.
• Privacy and Data Security: The public needs reassurance about how their personal and vehicle data is collected, stored, and protected within the MyJPJ app.
• Transparency: Clear communication from the government about the system’s benefits and safeguards is essential to build trust.

What about those without smartphones or internet access?

Minister Loke assures that this scenario presents no hindrance, as physical road tax stickers and driving licenses can still be obtained from JPJ.

Concerns were particularly raised by individuals without smartphones, lacking internet access, and senior citizens.

What if one drives someone else’s vehicle?

This concern has also been addressed. For individuals who have embraced the fully digital approach and abandoned road tax stickers, they can print a copy of the digital road tax to be kept in the vehicle. This allows non-owners to present the road tax if requested by authorities.

Minister Loke reassures that even without a physical copy, it is not a violation of the law, as authorities can verify details electronically.

Is this practice common in other countries?

According to transport consultant Rosli Azad Khan, countries like the Netherlands have implemented digital systems to access vehicle information, although physical driving licenses are still mandatory. In Singapore, road tax stickers were phased out in 2017, and driving licenses were digitized in 2020, with details accessible through the Singpass app, which also functions as the nation’s digital IC.