MIRI: In a bid to tackle the issue of school students operating motorcycles without licenses, the Sarawak government has launched the MyLesen Class B2 Driving License Assistance Programme.
Minister for Transport, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said that the initiative targets students aged 16 and above, particularly those facing financial constraints.
The six-month pilot programme is specifically tailored for students in the Miri region, with a focus on the Senadin constituency, where unlicensed motorcycle usage is more prevalent.
Lee expressed optimism that this programme will alleviate problems such as unlicensed riders, ‘Mat Rempit’ activities, and a lack of familiarity with road regulations among students.
Speaking at the event organised by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) Miri Branch on Thursday (Jan 11), he noted the potential impact of the programme on improving road safety.
Additionally, the initiative aims to provide Class B2 Driving Licenses (for motorcycles under 250cc) to the general public, especially those in the B40 income group, at reduced rates compared to market prices.
Lee highlighted the socioeconomic benefits for B40 individuals and rural communities, stressing the importance of prioritising road safety.
The eligibility criteria for programme applicants include Malaysian citizenship, age 16 and above, good physical and mental health, absence of any driving license, and being recipients of assistance programmes such as eKasih, zakat, Baitulmal, or belonging to the B40 group.
Residents of the Miri region, particularly those from the Senadin constituency, who meet the criteria are encouraged to apply before the deadline on Jan 31, 2024.
The event was attended by Norizan Jili, director of the Sarawak Road Transport Department; Fifi Suhesty, head of JPJ Miri Branch; Hasmuni Juan Ubit, deputy Resident of Miri; and Then Fen Nee, assistant District Education officer for Students’ Development.
