Penang JPJ detected 38 drivers testing positive for drugs from January to Oct 21, including 23 lorry drivers, 12 private vehicle drivers and three bus drivers.
NIBONG TEBAL: The Penang Road Transport Department (JPJ) detected 38 cases of drivers testing positive for drugs from January until last night, including 23 lorry drivers.
Its director Zulkifly Ismail said 12 cases involved private vehicle drivers, while three involved bus drivers.
He said the drivers, aged between 30 and 50, tested positive for various substances, with methamphetamine (syabu) recording the highest number of cases at 23, followed by ketum (six), cannabis (five) and morphine (one).
JPJ had also suspended five driving licences and five vocational driving licences in connection with drug-related cases during the period.
“We cannot wait until accidents happen before taking action. Preventive measures and enforcement operations must be carried out continuously,” he told reporters after an integrated drug enforcement operation involving Penang JPJ and the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) at the Valdor Enforcement Station here last night.
Zulkifly said some drivers cited peer influence and the belief that drugs could help them stay energetic and alert for longer periods, particularly when driving at night.
However, he stressed that such reasoning was no excuse for drug use, which could endanger other road users.
He also urged transport operators and logistics companies to screen their drivers to identify potential risks before allowing them to operate commercial vehicles.
“Road safety is not solely the responsibility of drivers. Employers and transport operators must also ensure their workers are fit, healthy and safe to perform their duties,” he said.
He added that the integrated operation was part of JPJ’s ongoing efforts to strengthen enforcement and curb drug abuse among drivers, particularly those operating commercial and heavy vehicles.