Compliance among motor vehicles with the Environmental Quality Act (AKAS) 1974 has climbed to 94 per cent nationwide, bringing it close to the Department of Environment’s target of 95 per cent and signalling steady progress in controlling vehicle emissions. The improvement has been largely driven by the wider adoption of cleaner fuels such as Euro
The encouraging figures emerged from Ops Gerak Kebangsaan, a nationwide enforcement operation that saw 9,269 vehicles inspected. According to Bernama, of that total, only 567 vehicles were found to be in breach of emission regulations, meaning just six per cent failed to comply. These violations involved six types of offences linked to excessive smoke emissions from diesel and petrol engines, including readings that exceeded permitted limits.
Operations deputy director-general Dr Norhazni Mat Sari said reaching full compliance in the short term remains difficult, but achieving close to 95 per cent is both realistic and commendable. She noted that the results reflect steady behavioural and technical improvements within the vehicle population.
The operation highlighted the Department of Environment’s broad enforcement scope under the Environmental Quality Act, which goes beyond exhaust emissions to include vehicle noise levels, fuel content standards and refrigerant management. All state environment offices took part, working closely with multiple enforcement bodies such as the Road Transport Department, Royal Malaysia Police, National Anti-Drugs Agency and other federal and state agencies.
Senior department officials, including Enforcement Division director Rosli Zul and Air Division director Nor Aziah Jaafar, were also involved in the programme, underscoring the department’s commitment to a coordinated and comprehensive approach. With compliance now nearing its target, authorities see the results as a positive step towards cleaner air and more environmentally responsible motoring nationwide.