Local bus operators are left in a bind since the decommissioning of Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) that has resulted in them not being able to renew their permits. About 30% of the buses in the industry are affected by this issue.

Peninsular Malaysia Association of Excursion Bus Operators advisor, Yusmi Mohd Yusup said that the process of renewing bus permits was interrupted after the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) took over the functions of SPAD. Those affected by the problem include express bus, travel bus, school bus, factory bus and chartered bus operators.

The predicament has caused many bus operators to not operate their business as usual. Without a permit, they will not be able to renew the road tax and vehicle insurance which eventually lead to obstruction of vehicle inspection at Puspakom. This has forced some operators to outsource the service which end up incurring more costs. Charges were significantly higher during the Chinese New Year peak season.

The Association hopes that swift action will be taken to ensure permits are able to be renewed on time.