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The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is taking stringent measures to curb petrol and diesel smuggling by mandating the installation of closed circuit cameras (CCTV) at petrol stations, particularly those near the border.

CCTV Installation Mandate

  • Policy Enforcement: The KPDN will withdraw the operating license of petrol stations that refuse to install CCTV cameras.
  • Target Locations: The initiative focuses on border areas such as Pengkalan Kubor, Rantau Panjang, and Bukit Bunga.
  • Implementation Timeline: The installation of CCTV at these stations will be implemented this year.

Reasons for the Mandate

  • Combat Smuggling: The primary goal is to address and reduce the smuggling of petrol and diesel to neighbouring countries.
  • Monitoring: The installed CCTV systems will allow KPDN to monitor activities at petrol stations directly from their office.

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The high demand for driving instructors in Malaysia has led to a consistent shortage of trainers, causing delays for candidates waiting to learn to drive. This issue is particularly acute in the Klang Valley, where candidates often have to wait three to five months for their turn, as reported by NST.

Instructor Quotas

The Road Transport Department (RTD) has set quotas for instructors, allowing one instructor per car or lorry candidate and one instructor for up to five motorcycle candidates.

Shortage of Instructors

Many driving schools are struggling to meet demand due to these quotas. For instance, Rawang Driving Institutes currently has 54 instructors but needs five more.

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Jaecoo Malaysia has launched its first dealership in Klang Valley, specifically in Glenmarie, Shah Alam. This flagship 3S dealership, operated by ES Premium Holdings Sdn Bhd, marks the beginning of Jaecoo’s premium off-road SUV presence in Malaysia. The brand plans to establish 34 more dealerships in the upcoming months.

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The Malaysian government is set to enforce the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) for foreign vehicles, particularly from Singapore, starting October 1. Transport Minister Anthony Loke has emphasised the government’s firm stance on this decision, highlighting the importance of compliance with Malaysian road laws for all foreign drivers.

Key Points of the VEP Implementation:

  1. Strict Enforcement:
    • The VEP will be mandatory from October 1, with no changes or delays to this enforcement date.
    • Foreign drivers, especially from Singapore, must comply with Malaysian road regulations.
  2. Compliance Expectations:
    • Singaporean drivers entering Malaysia are expected to adhere to the same legal standards that Malaysian drivers must follow when entering Singapore.
    • Foreign drivers must pay any fines for traffic violations before leaving Malaysia.
  3. Tracking and Enforcement:
    • Currently, without the VEP, there is no effective method to track foreign vehicles and enforce traffic laws.
    • The VEP will enable Malaysian authorities to monitor foreign vehicles and ensure payment of fines for any traffic violations.
  4. Entry Points for VEP Enforcement:
    • Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) at Johor Causeway.
    • Sultan Abu Bakar Building at Malaysia-Singapore Second Link.

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Sime Darby Motors (SDM) announced the launch of DRIVECARE, a new multi-franchise one-stop service centre designed to cater to the needs of car owners across all segments and brands. This initiative aims to offer customers competitive pricing, convenience and comfort backed by the expertise of SM’s highly trained technicians.

DRIVECARE is targeted for expansion across Southeast Asian markets, followed by a rollout throughout SM’s operations across the Asia Pacific region. This strategic expansion underscores SM’s unwavering commitment to offering accessible and reliable automotive services.

DRIVECARE was created to tackle common frustrations faced by customers at many vehicle service workshops, such as inadequate facilities and workmanship, subpar customer service and lack of comfortable waiting areas. By leveraging SDM’s extensive automotive expertise and advanced equipment, DRIVECARE promises an exceptional experience for car service and maintenance at competitive prices.

DRIVECARE customers can look forward to well-maintained facilities, organised workspaces and comfortable lounges. The state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge equipment at DRIVECARE ensure that every vehicle receives the utmost care and attention from its team of experienced technicians.

Complementing DRIVECARE is Sime Darby Auto Selection, Sime Darby Motors’ trusted brand for pre-owned vehicles, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a new car. DRIVECARE operates within the Auto Selection facility, ensuring seamless service and support for pre-owned vehicle buyers.

Customers can visit DRIVECARE’s official service centres located at Lot 33 Glenmarie and at Chan Sow Lin, which are open and ready to cater to customers’ needs. To commemorate the launch, from June 26 to July 31, 2024, DRIVECARE is offering special promotions to invite customers to experience the services by DRIVECARE.

These include complimentary vehicle inspections, a 20% discount for parts and labour charges, and a complimentary set of wiper blades with every windshield replacement. To enhance the customer experience further, all services during the promotional period will also include a complimentary car wash and a free Liqui Moly product.

In addition, DRIVECARE is offering a limited-time promotion for customers servicing two vehicles. The first 100 customers who bring a second car for servicing will enjoy a 50% discount on engine oil, subject to terms and conditions. This offer is valid only for vehicles registered under the same owner. Visit www.drivecare.com.my for more information.

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) of Malaysia has issued a series of recalls for several automotive brands, including Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, and Chery. Below are the details for each brand and model affected.

Toyota

Model: Toyota Corolla Cross
Affected Units: 2,739
Production Period: July 2023 – September 2023
Recall Status: Ongoing since March 2024
Action: Toyota will contact owners for vehicle inspections and necessary repairs.

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Batik Air has introduced a new premium and sustainable private terminal transfer service for its passengers, starting from yesterday. This exclusive service is available to Batik Air Business Class and Flexi passengers and aims to enhance their travel experience amid the temporary suspension of the aerotrain service at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

Key Features of the New Service

  • Exclusive Offering: The service is exclusive to Batik Air Business Class and Flexi passengers.
  • Collaboration with Kia: In partnership with automaker Kia, through its sole distributor Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd, Batik Air offers seamless and eco-friendly transfers.
  • Vehicle Fleet: Passengers will be chauffeured in the all-electric Kia EV9 and the latest model of the Kia Carnival.
  • Route: The service facilitates transfers between the main terminal and the satellite building of KLIA Terminal 1.

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A recent case involved a single mother who was scammed when her used Toyota Vios broke down a week after purchase. Here’s what went wrong and how to avoid similar issues:

  • Misrepresentation: The car was claimed to be a 2014 model but was actually a 2013 model. Always verify the vehicle’s year of manufacture.
  • Lack of Warranty: The seller refused responsibility after the sale. Always ensure you have a written warranty.
  • High Fees and Interest Rates: The seller imposed exorbitant fees and a high-interest rate. Verify and negotiate all fees and financing terms before signing.

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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introduces two new variants of the Mercedes-Benz GLB compact SUV: the GLB 200 and GLB 250 4MATIC. With its powerful proportions and numerous innovations, the redesigned GLB is poised to attract even more customers.

Mercedes Benz GLB 200

Exterior Features

  • Design Updates: The GLB 200 features a redesigned front bumper with visual underbody protection, an SUV radiator grille with four horizontal louvres, and a Progressive Line exterior. The GLB 250 4MATIC sports an AMG Line exterior with a radiator grille that has single louvres and chrome inserts, an AMG front apron with a front splitter, and an AMG rear apron with visible tailpipe trim in high-gloss black.
  • Night Package: Available for both variants, this package includes high-gloss black trim parts, including the radiator shell louvres, front and rear apron trim elements, roof railing, exterior mirror housing, beltline and window line trim strips, and simulated underguard.
  • Lighting: The GLB features new full-LED headlights and rear lights, with Adaptive Highbeam Assist included in the LED High Performance headlamps.
  • Wheels: The GLB 200 comes with 18-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, while the GLB 250 4MATIC has 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels.
  • Colour Options: The range of exterior colors has been expanded to include a new Spectral Blue Metallic paint.
Mercedes Benz GLB 250 4M

Interior Features

  • Seating and Space: The GLB can accommodate up to seven occupants, offering high practicality and variability. The GLB 200 features ARTICO man-made leather upholstery, while the GLB 250 4MATIC offers a combination of ARTICO man-made leather and MICROCUT microfibre.
  • Displays and Infotainment: Both variants come with freestanding 10.25-inch wide-screen displays for the instrument cluster and multimedia screens. The latest generation of the MBUX infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Design Elements: The interior includes round air vents in a turbine look, a new multifunction sports steering wheel (leather in GLB 200, Nappa leather in GLB 250 4MATIC), and a Star-pattern trim (backlit in GLB 250 4MATIC) that interacts with ambient lighting.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Additional USB-C ports, increased USB charging power, illuminated USB ports, comfort seats, ambient lighting with 64 colours, and THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control enhance the interior experience.

Safety and Technology

  • Safety Features: Both variants come equipped with Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Assist, Active Brake Assist, and a Parking Package with a reverse camera. The KEYLESS-GO Comfort package, EASY-PACK tailgate, and GUARD 360° Vehicle protection are also included.
  • Exclusive GLB 250 Features: The GLB 250 4MATIC includes 4MATIC all-wheel drive and an additional 48-volt electrical system for the belt-driven starter generator. This system provides an additional 10kW of power for faster acceleration, low-vibration and low-noise engine starting, coasting with the engine off, and energy recuperation during braking and acceleration.

Pricing

  • Mercedes-Benz GLB 200: RM290,888 (on the road without insurance, with 10% Sales Tax for Peninsular Malaysia).
  • Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC: RM341,888 (on the road without insurance, with 10% Sales Tax for Peninsular Malaysia).

E-hailing drivers and delivery riders face numerous challenges in their line of work, including adverse weather conditions and heavy traffic. However, for some, the job also comes with the troubling experience of sexual harassment, as reported by NST.

 Personal Accounts of Harassment

  1. Subhan, a 24-year-old e-hailing driver, recounts an incident where a male customer offered him a substantial tip and made inappropriate requests:

– Incident: The customer gave Subhan an RM50 tip and asked him to visit his house after work, offering more money to shave his beard.

– Response: Subhan politely declined, mentioning that his girlfriend liked his beard.

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