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Puspakom Periodic Inspection 2025 changes by JPJ


Estimated Reading Time: 7-9 minutes



Key Takeaways:

  • Mandatory periodic inspection procedures for commercial vehicles will be significantly tightened by Puspakom, as ordered by JPJ, starting September 1, 2025.
  • Four critical areas are targeted: enhanced brake system efficiency, comprehensive trailer brake testing, rigorous tyre re-inspection, and the reinstatement of key visual inspection items.
  • These changes aim to drastically improve road safety across Malaysia by ensuring commercial vehicles meet higher operational standards, directly impacting accident rates and public safety.
  • Commercial vehicle owners must proactively adapt their maintenance and inspection preparation strategies to comply with the new regulations, mitigating risks of failure, operational delays, and potential penalties.
  • The new retest policies demand a holistic approach, where a single component failure in a system can trigger a re-inspection of all related parts, emphasizing thoroughness over isolated fixes.


Table of Contents



Navigating the New Road Ahead: Stricter Commercial Vehicle Inspections by JPJ

Did you know that commercial vehicle accidents, often linked to mechanical failures and inadequate maintenance, tragically claim lives and impose an estimated economic burden of hundreds of millions annually on our national economy? It's a sobering reality that underscores the critical importance of road safety and vehicle integrity. Recognizing this pressing issue, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) has issued a pivotal directive that will fundamentally change how commercial vehicles are inspected in Malaysia. Beginning September 1, 2025, commercial vehicle owners must prepare for significant updates as Puspakom's periodic inspection procedures tighten Sept 1, 2025, mandated by JPJ. Discover the four key changes affecting vehicle owners. This crucial directive from JPJ aims to elevate safety standards, drastically reduce road incidents, and ensure every commercial vehicle traversing our highways and byways is truly roadworthy. This comprehensive guide will walk you through these pivotal changes, outline their profound implications for your operations, and provide actionable, data-driven strategies to ensure your fleet not only remains compliant but also sets a new benchmark for safety and reliability.



Understanding the Mandate: Why Stricter Inspections?

The directive for stricter Puspakom inspections stems from a clear and urgent need for enhanced road safety across the nation. Analysis of traffic accident data consistently highlights mechanical deficiencies, particularly those related to braking systems, tyre conditions, and structural integrity, as major contributors to commercial vehicle accidents. These incidents not only result in fatalities and injuries but also cause significant property damage and traffic disruptions, impacting supply chains and economic productivity. The JPJ's order to Puspakom is a proactive and necessary measure designed to mitigate these multifaceted risks. By implementing more rigorous and comprehensive checks, authorities aim to detect and rectify potential failures before they escalate into catastrophic incidents. For commercial vehicle owners and fleet managers, this isn't merely about ticking boxes for compliance; it's about safeguarding human lives, protecting your valuable business assets, upholding your company's reputation, and fostering trust within the community. These forthcoming changes represent a collective, forward-thinking step towards a safer, more reliable, and ultimately more efficient transport ecosystem, benefiting not just vehicle operators but every single road user in Malaysia.



The Four Pillars of Enhanced Safety: What's Changing?

The upcoming changes, effective September 1, 2025, will be implemented in stages and focus on four critical areas of the mandatory periodic inspection (pemeriksaan berkala). A deep understanding of each of these pillars will be absolutely key to ensuring successful compliance and minimizing operational disruptions.


1. Enhanced Brake System Efficiency

The first and arguably most critical update targets the very heart of vehicle safety: the brake system. Puspakom will now conduct a full, detailed inspection on all components of the braking system, leaving no stone unturned. This is far beyond a simple visual check; it includes a comprehensive instrumented brake efficiency test that precisely measures stopping power. What's crucial to note for commercial operators is the exceptionally stringent retest policy: should even a single item, whether identified through sophisticated instrumented testing or a thorough visual inspection, fail, all related braking system items will be meticulously re-inspected during the retest (pemeriksaan berkala semula). This holistic approach ensures that any identified flaw or weakness is addressed within the broader context of the entire brake system, eliminating the possibility of partial or superficial compliance. For savvy fleet managers, this mandates meticulous pre-inspection checks on brake pads, discs, calipers, master cylinders, air lines, and ABS components, making thorough maintenance more vital than ever before.


2. Comprehensive Trailer Brake Testing

Trailers, which often form a significant and integral part of heavy commercial vehicle operations, are now receiving dedicated and intensified attention. The new guidelines unequivocally state that all axles for all types of trailers must be individually tested for brake efficiency. Beyond simply assessing individual axle performance, the overall brake efficiency reading of the entire trailer unit will also be meticulously taken into account to determine its complete and balanced braking capability. This ensures that trailers, irrespective of their size, load capacity, or configuration, contribute adequately and safely to the entire combined vehicle's stopping power. Historically, trailer brakes have been a documented point of concern in accident investigations; this focused and comprehensive inspection aims to rectify those vulnerabilities, guaranteeing that combined vehicles operate with optimal, balanced, and consistent braking performance across all their components.


3. Rigorous Tyre Re-inspection Protocol

Tyres are a vehicle's only direct contact with the road surface, making their condition absolutely paramount to overall safety, stability, and handling. Puspakom's new rules introduce a significantly tougher stance on retests concerning tyre integrity. If a commercial vehicle is brought in for a retest, all tyres will be inspected again, irrespective of the original reason for the initial failure that led to the retest. This represents a substantial shift in procedure, meaning that even if your vehicle initially failed for, for instance, a faulty headlamp or a minor oil leak, all tyres will undergo a renewed and thorough scrutiny during the subsequent retest. This uncompromising policy unequivocally underlines the critical role tyres play in vehicle stability, road grip, load bearing, and overall safety, thereby enforcing a higher and more consistent standard of maintenance and vigilance across the board for all commercial vehicle operators.


4. Reinstatement of Critical Visual Inspection Items

Puspakom will also reinstate several crucial items that were previously dropped from the periodic inspection list, significantly broadening the scope and depth of visual checks. These critical items, essential for structural integrity and operational safety, include: axle shaft cover/bolt/nut, body 'U' bolt, cross member, floorboard, driver/passenger seat, mixer overflow container, body work/paint work, door panel, and engine oil leak. The reinstatement of these specific items highlights a renewed and comprehensive focus on the foundational structural integrity, essential functional components, and general roadworthiness often overlooked in previous lighter inspections. Furthermore, an important new rule states that if any item that functions as a pair within a system fails, all related items will have to be inspected again in the retest. This prevents a "fix one, ignore the other" mentality. Finally, the functionality test for bogie axles is now mandatory, ensuring that these complex and heavy-duty systems are operating correctly and safely. These reinstated and enhanced visual checks provide a far more holistic and robust safety assessment, proactively catching issues that might otherwise compromise structural integrity, driver comfort, or overall operational safety.



Preparing Your Fleet: A Proactive Approach

With these significant and stringent changes on the horizon, proactive preparation is not merely advisable; it is absolutely essential for every commercial vehicle owner. To navigate these new regulations seamlessly and effectively, consider the following strategies:

  • Implement Advanced Maintenance Schedules: Move beyond reactive repairs. Consider embracing predictive maintenance utilizing advanced telematics data to continuously monitor critical parameters such as brake wear, tyre pressure, fluid levels, and engine diagnostics in real-time. This data-driven approach can help identify potential issues long before they become inspection failures.
  • Conduct Rigorous Internal Pre-Inspections: Before sending any vehicle to Puspakom, conduct thorough internal checks that meticulously mirror Puspakom's new, stricter criteria. Develop a comprehensive, multi-point checklist that specifically covers all reinstated visual items, full brake system checks (including efficiency), and all trailer axles.
  • Invest in Quality Parts and Targeted Training: Ensure your fleet exclusively uses high-quality, certified brake components and robust, road-legal tyres. Crucially, invest in specialized training for your maintenance staff, educating them on the specific requirements of the new inspection procedures, especially concerning paired system failures, bogie axle functionality, and the expanded visual inspection list.
  • Meticulous Digital Record Keeping: Maintain detailed and easily accessible digital records of all vehicle maintenance, repairs, component replacements, and previous inspection reports. This level of transparency and documentation can be invaluable in demonstrating consistent compliance and operational readiness.
  • Allocate Adequate Resources and Time: Understand that these stricter checks might require more time per inspection or retest due to their comprehensive nature. Factor this potential increase in time and resource allocation into your operational planning to avoid unexpected downtime, missed delivery schedules, and unnecessary operational bottlenecks.

Embracing these changes as a strategic opportunity to enhance your fleet's overall safety, reliability, and operational efficiency will undoubtedly yield significant long-term benefits, including a substantial reduction in accident risks, potential savings on insurance premiums, and fewer costly unexpected breakdowns.



Navigating the Retest Process

The new retest policies introduced by Puspakom are designed to be particularly stringent, emphasizing comprehensive remediation rather than isolated fixes. If your commercial vehicle fails an initial inspection, the subsequent retest is no longer a simple check of only the failed item. As noted, a failure in even one brake component now triggers a mandatory re-inspection of all related braking system items to ensure systemic integrity. Similarly, any retest for any reason will now lead to a thorough re-inspection of all tyres on the vehicle, regardless of whether tyres were the original cause of failure. The reinstatement of paired system re-inspections also means that if, for example, one body 'U' bolt is found to be faulty, its corresponding counterpart will also be subjected to re-inspection. This holistic and thorough approach is specifically designed to eliminate a piecemeal or 'patch-up' repair mentality, instead enforcing comprehensive and lasting rectifications. Understanding this new retest philosophy is absolutely crucial for fleet operators to ensure that when a vehicle is presented for a retest, it's not just the immediate failure point that has been addressed, but that all related components and systems are brought up to the highest safety standards.



Looking Ahead: The Impact on Commercial Vehicle Operations

"We understand that this change may need some adjustment for customers; however, it is important to ensure the safety of all road users," Puspakom stated, perfectly encapsulating the essence and intent behind these new regulations. While the initial adjustments to maintenance routines, operational scheduling, and perhaps even capital expenditure might seem daunting, the long-term benefits for the commercial transport sector and public safety are profound and far-reaching. Enhanced safety standards will directly lead to a measurable reduction in road accidents, significantly lower vehicle downtime due to breakdowns, and ultimately, foster a more reliable, efficient, and reputable commercial transport sector across Malaysia. Businesses that adapt swiftly and proactively to these new requirements will likely gain a distinct competitive advantage, demonstrating a clear and unwavering commitment to safety that will resonate positively with clients, insurance providers, and the general public. Furthermore, a safer fleet can contribute to lower insurance premiums and better driver retention. These updates are a clear and decisive indicator of Malaysia's commitment to modernizing and strengthening its road safety framework, aligning with and often exceeding international best practices. Preparing early is not merely about avoiding penalties; it's a strategic investment in the future resilience and reputation of your operations, and critically, in the collective safety of our roads.



Your Road to Compliance Starts Now

The implementation of stricter Puspakom inspections, mandated by JPJ and effective September 1, 2025, marks a pivotal and transformative moment for all commercial vehicle owners in Malaysia. The four key areas of intensified focus—enhanced brake system efficiency, comprehensive trailer brake testing, rigorous tyre re-inspection protocols, and the reinstatement of critical visual checks—are meticulously designed to fundamentally elevate road safety standards nationwide. While these new procedures will undoubtedly require diligent adjustment, increased vigilance, and a more thorough, proactive approach to vehicle maintenance, the ultimate goal is noble: to foster a safer, more reliable environment for everyone who shares our roads. Procrastination is not an option. Don't wait until the last minute to react. Begin preparing your fleet today, ensure comprehensive compliance with the upcoming regulations, and confidently embrace a future of enhanced operational safety, improved efficiency, and an unblemished reputation.



What are your immediate thoughts and action plans regarding these upcoming changes? How are you actively preparing your commercial fleet for the stricter Puspakom inspections? Share your valuable strategies, insights, and any concerns in the comments section below, or connect with us for more tailored advice and resources! Let's navigate this new and safer road together, ensuring Malaysia's commercial transport sector remains robust and responsible.



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When do these new Puspakom inspection procedures take effect?
A1: The new and significantly tighter periodic inspection procedures, mandated by the Road Transport Department (JPJ), will be implemented in stages starting from September 1, 2025. This gives commercial vehicle owners ample time to understand and prepare for the changes.

Q2: Which vehicles are specifically affected by these stricter rules?
A2: These new and more rigorous procedures specifically apply to all commercial vehicles in Malaysia that are required to undergo mandatory periodic inspections (pemeriksaan berkala) by Puspakom, including trucks, buses, vans, and their respective trailers.

Q3: What if my vehicle fails a retest due to an item that wasn't the original reason for the initial failure?
A3: This is a critical change. The new rules state that for certain vital systems, such as the entire brake system or any item functioning as a pair (e.g., U-bolts), if any component fails, all related items within that system will be fully re-inspected during the retest. Moreover, for tyres, if a vehicle is undergoing any retest for any reason, all tyres on the vehicle will be inspected again, regardless of whether they were the initial cause of failure. This policy enforces a comprehensive, holistic approach to repairs and re-inspection.

Q4: How can I best prepare my commercial fleet for these new, stricter changes?
A4: Effective preparation involves several key steps: implementing advanced, data-driven preventive maintenance schedules, conducting thorough internal pre-inspections that mirror Puspakom's new criteria, investing in high-quality certified parts, providing targeted training for your maintenance staff on the specific new requirements, and maintaining meticulous digital records of all repairs, services, and previous inspection reports. A proactive mindset is paramount.

Q5: Will these changes increase the cost of inspections or vehicle maintenance?
A5: While Puspakom's official statement does not explicitly mention an increase in direct inspection fees, the stricter requirements and comprehensive retest policies will likely necessitate a higher standard of maintenance and potentially more frequent component replacements for commercial vehicle owners. This proactive investment, however, is designed to reduce long-term costs associated with accidents, major breakdowns, and operational downtime, ultimately contributing to a safer and more efficient fleet.

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