Kuala Lumpur, August 25, 2025 – Transport Minister Anthony Loke has issued a firm warning to farmers and smallholders using custom-modified three-wheel motorcycles to transport agricultural produce, stressing that such vehicles cannot be deemed roadworthy without official approval.
Speaking in the Dewan Rakyat, Loke said these unapproved tricycles cannot be insured, taxed, or legally recognised for use on public roads. As such, users risk bearing full liability in the event of accidents. “If any vehicle is modified without approval, its use is illegal. In the event of accidents, the risks will be borne solely by the users. That is why we strongly advise farmers to seek approval so that they are protected under the law,” he told the House.
The issue was raised by Sabak Bernam MP Kalam Salan (PN), who highlighted the growing use of motorcycles fitted with rear carriages in rural areas to carry crops and goods. He urged the government to provide clearer guidelines so farmers would not be penalised for using these vehicles. Kalam also asked whether the ministry would consider approving the three-wheeled motorcycles introduced under the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) National Courier Accelerator Plan (PAKEJ), noting that many smallholders found them practical but struggled with the approval process.
In response, Loke clarified that three-wheel motorcycles are indeed allowed under the Road Transport Act 1987 and the Motor Vehicle (Construction and Use) Rules 1959, provided they meet strict criteria. Such vehicles must be officially registered, licensed, and fitted with proper compartments or boxes. They are also required to undergo safety inspections every six months.
Beyond registration, Loke explained that these vehicles must obtain Vehicle Type Approval (VTA) from the Road Transport Department (RTD), comply with United Nations vehicle safety regulations, adhere to environmental standards, and be registered as commercial goods vehicles. Operators must also hold vocational driving licences to operate them legally.
To support farmers and smallholders, Loke said the ministry is prepared to provide technical advice and guidance throughout the approval process. However, he emphasised that suppliers and manufacturers modifying the vehicles bear the responsibility of obtaining official approval before selling them.
He further noted that the Transport Ministry is open to collaborating with other government bodies, including the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development, to facilitate the legal use of tricycles in farming, microbusinesses, and even tourism.
“Any party wishing to use tricycles for specific purposes should come forward and engage with RTD on how the vehicles can be approved legally. Safety must always come first. We do not want accidents involving unregulated vehicles to become the government’s responsibility,” Loke stressed.
