Call To Hasten Bus Driver Database To Curb Human Smuggling

KOTA BHARU, March 5 (Bernama) -- The government was urged to expedite the establishment of a public transport drivers' database, particularly those in the express bus industry, to curb the smuggling of undocumented migrants.

Konsortium E-Mutiara Berhad executive chairman Che Ibrahim Che Ismail said the call was made as he was concerned that public transport could be used to transport undocumented foreign nationals to specific locations without detection by authorities.

He said such a database is vital for registering drivers who faced disciplinary action, including suspension or termination, for misconduct such as involvement in human smuggling.

“Last November, our company detected the involvement of a driver and an assistant driver on the Johor Bahru route who were believed to have received lucrative payment to transport five to six foreigners, based on a review of the bus closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage.

“Upon reviewing the video, we immediately summoned and suspended the drivers involved. However, after a report was lodged with the authorities, the individuals vanished,” he told reporters at the Konsortium E-Mutiara Berhad 2026 Zakat presentation ceremony at the company's headquarters in Panji here today.

Che Ibrahim said that the absence of a centralised database allows drivers with prior records of offences to seek employment with other companies.

“When records are not shared, they can apply and be rehired elsewhere. Therefore, it is hoped that agencies such as the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) or the Road Transport Department implement the database quickly so that disciplinary records can be logged and referenced by all operators.

“It is up to the individual companies whether they wish to hire them or not, but at least there would be a record for reference,” he said.

Media reports previously indicated that a database of over 60,000 bus and lorry operators, developed by APAD, is expected to be launched in the first quarter of next year.

In another development, Che Ibrahim said nearly 40,000 bus tickets have been sold for the peak Hari Raya Aidilfitri travel period from March 13 to March 20 for all destinations nationwide.

He also said the tickets, which went on sale before Ramadan, sold out in less than two weeks, involving nearly 80 buses: 25 economy buses and the remainder being executive buses.

“In terms of pricing, there is no price hike, but we are applying a 10 per cent surcharge for Aidilfitri as recommended by the government. We are also considering adding six extra buses for the period,” he added.

-- BERNAMA