AS the Transport Ministry (MOT) embarks on its digital transformation, it must address two key challenges, namely (i) pitfalls in implementation; and (ii) the coordination between government enforcement units.
Starting next month, MOT has announced that the public will be able to renew road tax and driving licenses through the mobile application MyJPJ.
While digitalising its services, the MOT must simultaneously address the difficulties faced by groups unable to enjoy the convenience of technology advancements due to their struggles with technology illiteracy or the lack of access to mobile and internet devices.
While the transition to digital services undoubtedly enhances convenience, MOT needs to consider the challenges faced by individuals who may not have access to electronic options.
Therefore, it is essential to offer a variety of options by allowing people to choose either digital or traditional services.
This includes the introduction of ‘paper documents’ that will replace conventional road tax stickers and driving license cards. Ensuring an adequate supply of these documents is crucial to avoid a repeat of last year’s incident when the Road Transport Department (RTD) faced shortages and couldn’t issue commercial vehicle road tax stickers.
Furthermore, MOT must also ensure effective integration and coordination of information among government departments by preventing situations whereby enforcement officers of the ministry and other government departments act independently or are in contradiction of each other.
The confusion that arose among enforcement officers after MOT’s announcement in February 2023 to permit electronic road tax has raised serious concerns. Despite producing their electronic road tax, road users/motorists were targeted by enforcement officers.
As the official launch of these digital services approaches next month, this invites the question of whether there has been sufficient internal coordination and communication among the enforcement units.
Addressing this gap proactively is critical for the successful implementation and public acceptance of electronic road tax. – Jan 4, 2023
Leaw Kok Chan is MCA’s national organising secretary.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
