World · Malaysia Bureau
Kelantan cracks down on vehicle rental scheme involving Rohingya migrants
Thirty-four vehicle owners in Kelantan have been fined a combined RM34,000 after authorities uncovered a new scheme where they rented cars to Rohingya nationals. The Road Transport Department identified the practice as a growing concern in the state.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Road Transport Department (JPJ) in Kelantan has taken action against three dozen vehicle owners who participated in renting cars to members of the Rohingya community, marking an escalation in regulatory enforcement against informal transportation arrangements involving migrant populations.
Each of the 34 vehicle owners received fines totalling RM34,000, according to JPJ Kelantan's investigation. The enforcement action follows the department's discovery of what authorities characterised as a new rental tactic, wherein Rohingya nationals leased vehicles from local residents for everyday transportation needs.
The scheme reportedly included the rental of luxury vehicle models, suggesting a more sophisticated operation than informal car-sharing arrangements. The department's identification of this practice underscores growing concerns among Malaysian authorities regarding undocumented economic activities within migrant communities.
The action represents continued efforts by Malaysian authorities to regulate informal transportation networks and enforce compliance with vehicle registration and rental regulations. JPJ Kelantan did not disclose whether further investigations or charges are pending against other parties involved in the rental scheme.