PETALING JAYA: The road transport department (JPJ) will focus on commercial and heavy vehicles whose drivers take drugs.

This follows two fatal accidents in Seremban recently, involving two lorries, where the drivers tested positive for methamphetamine.

Transport minister Loke Siew Fook said previously JPJ had targeted express and sightseeing bus drivers and found that many of them tested positive for drugs, Bernama reported.

He said JPJ would continue to tighten and expand its integrated operation against heavy vehicles launched two months ago to include lorries to ensure their drivers comply with the rules and are not driving under the influence of drugs.

“This is a problem that must be given serious attention.

“Stricter operations will be undertaken to ensure drivers of heavy vehicles comply with the rules.

“Previously we targeted our operations in some industrial areas.

Now, we will expand enforcement so that drivers are more careful, he told reporters after officiating the 20th Negeri Sembilan DAP convention in Seremban today.

Loke reminded lorry owners and company operators that they too would face action if any of their drivers tested positive for drugs, resulting in an accident.

He said company owners have a responsibility to ensure their drivers do not abuse their license and position or commit traffic offenses.

He said in the case of an excursion bus that overturned and claimed the lives of two tourists in Genting Highlands on June 29, both the driver and company owner were charged in court for negligence.