Malaysian Authorities Investigate Sale of Fake Driving Licenses to Foreigners on Social Media

The Road Transport Department (RTD) in Malaysia has uncovered a case of foreigners purchasing counterfeit driving licenses through social media platforms. A 24-year-old Vietnamese man was recently arrested near the Malaysia-Thailand border for allegedly using a fake driving license that he had purchased for RM2,000 (approximately $450) on a social media site. The license was later confirmed to be a forgery by the Chemistry Department.

RTD officials are now investigating the possibility that others may possess similar fake licenses obtained through online channels. They emphasized that the purchase of counterfeit licenses is not restricted to foreigners and that Malaysian citizens could also be involved. The case is being investigated under Section 108 (3)(e) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for document forgery, which carries a fine of between RM5,000 and RM20,000, or imprisonment of between one and five years, or both, upon conviction.

Why this matters: The sale of counterfeit driving licenses poses significant risks to road safety and undermines the integrity of the licensing system. The ease with which these fake documents can be obtained through social media raises concerns about the need for stricter monitoring and enforcement measures to prevent their proliferation.

The RTD also noted that many unlicensed foreigners drive vehicles registered under Malaysian citizens, citing work and transportation needs. However, Malaysian vehicle owners who allow foreigners to drive their vehicles without valid licenses can face legal consequences, including fines and seizure of the vehicles.

This incident comes amid heightened enforcement efforts by the RTD during the recent Op Hari Raya Aidilfitri (HRA) operation from April 1 to 20, 2024. Throughout the operation, a total of 54,821 vehicles were inspected, 432 vehicles were seized, and 10,151 summonses were issued to road users for various offenses, including driving without a valid license and having expired road tax.

RTD Director-General Datuk Zailani Hashim stated, "We take the issue of fake driving licenses very seriously. Our department will continue to work closely with other agencies to investigate and prosecute those involved in the production and sale of these counterfeit documents. Road safety is our top priority, and we will not compromise on ensuring that only properly licensed individuals are allowed to operate vehicles on our roads."

Key Takeaways

• RTD uncovered a case of foreigners buying counterfeit driving licenses online.
• A Vietnamese man was arrested for using a fake license bought for RM2,000.
• RTD investigating if others have similar fake licenses obtained online.
• Buying counterfeit licenses poses road safety risks and legal consequences.
• RTD conducted enforcement operations, seizing vehicles and issuing summonses.