Motor vehicle driving institutes across Malaysia are allowed to reopen for operation from this Thursday (September 9), to fully vaccinated individuals only. 

According to the Minister of Transport (MOT) Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong’s announcement yesterday, driving institutes can resume operation under the National Recovery Plan (NRP) on an appointment basis. 

However, the driving examination to obtain related driving licenses will only commence on 17 September 2021. The minister explained the time gap is allocated to the driving institutes and Road Transport Department (JPJ) to make full preparation prior resuming the examinations. This is to avoid any issues that may affect the candidates. 

Ensuring safety with SOPs

The permission to reopen driving institutes was approved by the National Security Council (MKN) and is subjected to full adherence to the current standard operating procedure (SOP) under the NRP. 

All workers, instructors and candidates must:

• Complete COVID-19 vaccination 
• Present COVID-19 Digital Certificate, and
• Present identification card.

Also, each driving institute can only operate at the capacity according to the percentage of the employees that have been vaccinated. For instance, institute with:

• 40% of vaccinated employees, may operate at 60% of the current staff count 
• 60% of vaccinated employees, may operate at 80% of the current staff count
• 80% of vaccinated employees, may operate with a full staff count

In addition, individuals must give full compliance to the health protocols stipulated by the Ministry of Health. The protocols include:

• Check body temperature
• Check-in MySejahtera
• Maintain physical distance
• Wear a face mask, and
• Use hand sanitisers

Individuals with COVID-19 symptoms, residing in areas under Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO), and under surveillance or quarantine are not allowed into the driving institutes.

The Minister of Transport also reminds the public that any violation of the relevant SOPs can result in action taken under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (ACT 342). 

Meanwhile, in understanding the difficulties faced by driving institutes during the pandemic, the MOT will grant a three-month moratorium on the renewal of motor vehicle driving institutes’ permits until 30 November 2021. This applies to those whose permits expiry falls between January and September 2021. 

“As driving institutes begin to operate once again, we hope that this decision would bring relief to the operators, teaching staff, and public that need these services,” said Wee.