B40 Bikers: Scrappage Incentive Needs Industry To 'Kickstart' It First!

Good news, B40 riders! The Transport Ministry is open to the idea of a motorcycle scrappage incentive specifically for low-income groups. Imagine trading in your old kapcai for something newer and safer with a little help!

Industry Must Lead, Says Minister Loke

However, there's a catch. Transport Minister Anthony Loke made it clear that while the ministry doesn't reject the proposal – which came from an NGO – any such initiative needs to be spearheaded by local motorcycle manufacturers first. It can't solely rely on government funds.

"The ministry does not reject the idea, but such an initiative requires the cooperation of industry players and cannot rely entirely on government funding," Loke stated at the 28th National Yamaha "Balik Kampung" Road Safety Campaign in Seremban.

Learning from the Car Scrappage Success

Loke pointed to the successful car scrappage program as a precedent. Last year, local automotive giants like Proton Holdings and Perodua initiated their own scrappage schemes, which the government later supported with additional funding this year. This program offered incentives of up to RM4,000 – RM2,000 from the government and RM2,000 from manufacturers – to help owners replace vehicles aged 20 years or more with new, safer, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly cars.

The car program, backed by a total allocation of RM10 million from Budget 2026, aimed to boost road safety, cut down carbon emissions, and provide much-needed assistance to vehicle owners. If a motorcycle scrappage scheme gets off the ground, we could see similar benefits for the two-wheel community!

"For motorcycles, we need the manufacturers or industry players to take the lead. They must propose an initiative first, and then the government can consider how best to support or add value to the programme," he emphasized.

So, the ball is now in the court of our local motorcycle manufacturers. Let's hope they gear up and propose a solid plan so our B40 riders can look forward to safer and greener rides!

Quick Update: 'Smart Lanes' Under Review

In other news from the Transport Minister, the use of emergency lanes as "smart lanes" on several highways is currently under review. This comes after reports of accidents along these routes. While smart lanes were introduced to ease congestion during peak hours, safety remains paramount. Loke, who is also the Seremban Member of Parliament, noted that data showing accidents on these lanes necessitates a review.