Transport Minister Anthony Loke has revealed that owners of some of the world’s most exclusive car brands are sitting on road tax arrears amounting to nearly RM35.7 million.

According to figures from the Road Transport Department (JPJ), Porsche owners top the list with 4,308 vehicles racking up a combined RM13.7 million in unpaid road tax. Rolls-Royce follows with 345 cars owing RM6.4 million, while Bentley owners account for RM7 million from 660 vehicles. Ferrari owners are behind on RM4.7 million for 675 cars, and Lamborghini adds another RM3.7 million with 372 vehicles.

According to Bernama, Loke pointed out that many of these vehicles belong to high-profile individuals, including titled figures, politicians and prominent businessmen, yet the basic responsibility of renewing the Motor Vehicle Licence (LKM) is being ignored.

He stressed that while the government has extended targeted petrol subsidies under the BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) programme—even covering up to 300 litres per month for the wealthy—the obligation to renew road tax still applies to everyone.

Some luxury car owners, he explained, deliberately avoid paying, opting instead to risk their vehicles being seized. The reason is simple: the penalty is just RM300, far cheaper than annual road tax bills that can run between RM15,000 and RM30,000 depending on the car’s specifications. In one instance, a celebrity was caught driving with nearly three years of unpaid road tax, dismissing it as something they had “forgotten” to renew.

In response, JPJ has been cracking down with Op Luxury, an ongoing enforcement campaign that has already seen 421 luxury cars seized in recent months. Loke made it clear that the exercise is not about embarrassing owners but about sending a strong reminder that road tax and insurance renewals are a legal requirement, regardless of wealth or status.

If the trend continues, Loke warned that the authorities will not hesitate to take tougher measures against defaulters.

The confiscated luxury cars, estimated to be worth around RM6 million, are believed to belong to individuals holding positions as company owners and middlemen suspected of paying bribes to enforcement agency officers.

Sources indicate that the recent special operation conducted by MACC, the Inland Revenue Board, and Bank Negara aimed to crackdown on the syndicate’s illegal activities. Investigations have revealed links to money laundering schemes.

In connection with the case, 11 individuals, including five civil servants, have been arrested. The syndicate’s smuggling activities are suspected to have caused approximately RM400 million in tax revenue losses. Initial findings suggest that bribes amounting to RM8 million were paid to various individuals, including civil servants, to facilitate the syndicate’s operations.

The syndicate is believed to have operated between 2018 and last year. MACC’s anti-money laundering division director, Datuk Mohamad Zamri Zainul Abidin, has confirmed the seizure of the luxury cars as part of the investigation.

Ghafar mentioned that the enforcement division conducted raids at 12 locations across Perak and Selangor, resulting in the confiscation of vehicles such as Porsche, Lamborghini, and Mercedes-Benz models.

He further stated, “Perak customs also detained 11 people in their 40s to 50s, suspected to be vehicle owners and company owners, to assist in the investigation.” The offences included breaching duty and tax exemption terms, storing luxury vehicles in unlicensed areas, and possessing vehicle numbers in the peninsula for more than 90 days after registration in Langkawi.

Regarding the investigation, Ghafar mentioned that the department was still looking into whether those responsible had import permits. He emphasised the seriousness of smuggling, highlighting its adverse effects on the country’s revenue, national security, and the well-being of its citizens.

In a presentation highlighting Mercedes-Benz’s 2023 performance for stakeholders, the company outlined a strategic roadmap aimed at catering to its most discerning clientele. Among the key initiatives mentioned were the expansion of the Manufaktur personalisation program, a strategic partnership with fashion giant Moncler, a collaboration with renowned designer Virgil Abloh on a limited-edition Maybach, and the introduction of the inaugural model from the Mythos series, slated for release in 2025.

While specific details surrounding the Mythos lineup remain closely guarded, indications suggest that the first model to bear the Mythos badge will be an evolution of the recently launched SL. Described as “ultra-exclusive collector cars,” the Mythos range promises to push the boundaries of luxury, appealing to customers who seek a level of opulence beyond what Maybach currently offers. However, securing one of these coveted models may prove challenging, as Mercedes-Benz intends to reserve them for a select group of dedicated enthusiasts and collectors.

This exclusivity strategy mirrors trends observed in the luxury automotive sector, exemplified by Bentley’s highly sought-after Bacalar and Batur models, which sold out swiftly despite their limited production runs and premium price tags. By targeting long-standing brand loyalists and collectors, Mercedes-Benz aims to cultivate a similar level of desirability with its Mythos lineup.

Gordon Wagener, the visionary behind Mercedes-Benz’s design language, offered a tantalising glimpse of what’s to come with the Mythos series through a cryptic preview image shared on social media in 2022. While details remain scarce, Wagener’s teaser suggests that the Mythos models will embody a unique identity characterised by more than just superficial enhancements. As anticipation continues to build, enthusiasts eagerly await the unveiling of Mercedes-Benz’s latest expression of automotive excellence with the Mythos series.