Driving course, theory test simplification good move to save money, time

KUALA LUMPUR - Members of the public said the government's decision to exempt them from attending courses and theory tests when applying for different classes of driving licence is a great move which can save time and money.

Sekolah Memandu Ushawira manager Roslee Manap agreed with the Transport Ministry's (MOT) move, saying it is unnecessary for the public to go for separate courses just to obtain a different class of driving licence.

"It (courses) doesn't need to be differentiated. There is little to no difference in terms of the laws of road transport. The only significance in attending the driver education curriculum (KPP01) course is learning how to manoeuvre a two-tyre (motorcycle) and a four-tyre vehicle (motorcar).

"Why the need to go for separate courses two times just for that purpose? I agree with the Transport Minister's (Anthony Loke) decision. It saves the public time, money and energy," he told Bernama when contacted.

Roslee also suggested that the separate KPP01 courses for motorcars and motorcycles be merged to further reduce time wastage

"The KPP01 course is six hours each for motorcars and motorcycles. The courses may be merged into an eight-hour duration, for example. They still have to undergo practical tests separately, but at least they no longer need to waste time going for theory courses," he said.

Yesterday, Loke announced that starting Sept 15, any individual who holds either a motorcycle or motorcar driving licence and wishes to obtain a different class of driving licence is exempted from attending the KPP01 course and theory test.

Loke said apart from simplifying the process of obtaining a driver's licence and saving time, the new ruling will also provide savings of up to RM100 for licence applicants.

Lim Weng Sum, 20, said the simplified process of obtaining a licence will make it easier for him to juggle between his part-time job and tertiary studies while learning how to ride a motorcycle.

"It surely will save a lot of time and make me worry less. I just have to ace the theory test once, and I can directly go for a practical test for a motorcar driving licence in the future without having to sit through long hours of courses again," he said.

Store clerk Nadia Ibrahim, 31, who also works part-time as a food delivery rider, said she can now go towards obtaining a motorcycle licence without hesitation.

"Since becoming a rider, driving around in my car is rather inconvenient. I have to make sure my orders are delivered on time. MOT's announcement is literally a saviour to me as I can directly go for a motorcycle licence now," she said. - BERNAMA