Costly Hobby Backfires: RM18,000 Modified Motorcycle Confiscated by JPJ
KUALA LUMPUR: A motorcycle owner who spent approximately RM18,000 on extensive vehicle modifications saw his efforts come to an abrupt end when the bike was seized during the Road Transport Department’s (JPJ) ongoing Ops Ekstrem enforcement operation.
JPJ Senior Enforcement Director Datuk Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan said the department remains deeply concerned about the growing trend of illegal and extreme motorcycle modifications, warning that such alterations compromise the vehicle’s original safety features and significantly increase the risk of road accidents.
Speaking at a press conference following Ops Ekstrem in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday, Muhammad Kifli said enforcement officers discovered various dangerous modifications, including engine enhancements, alterations to engine control units (ECUs), modified exhaust systems, and even the removal of rear braking systems.
“These modifications not only violate road transport regulations but also endanger both riders and other road users,” he said.
He added that JPJ has intensified Ops Ekstrem nationwide as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve road safety, particularly as motorcyclists and pillion riders account for more than 60 percent of fatal road accident victims in Malaysia.
Also present at the briefing was Kuala Lumpur JPJ Director Hamidi Adam.
According to Muhammad Kifli, the majority of offenders identified during enforcement operations were between 18 and 30 years old. However, authorities were also alarmed to find cases involving riders as young as 12 years old who were still attending school.
Although enforcement statistics indicate a declining trend in traffic violations, he stressed that non-compliance among motorcycle riders remains a serious concern.
JPJ records show that a total of 848,885 JPJ(P)22 notices were issued in 2024, followed by 711,722 notices in 2025. As of May this year, another 252,118 notices had already been issued nationwide.
The department has also carried out vehicle seizures under Section 64(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. Between 2021 and 2026, a total of 38,959 motorcycles were confiscated for various offences.
In addition, strict action continues to be taken under Section 42 of the same Act against individuals found riding recklessly or dangerously. Several offenders have already been charged in court following investigations.
“JPJ will not compromise with anyone who deliberately breaks the law,” Muhammad Kifli said.
“Firm action, including the issuance of notices, vehicle seizures, and prosecution, will continue to be enforced to ensure Malaysia’s roads remain safe for all users.”
The latest Ops Ekstrem operation forms part of JPJ’s broader strategy to curb illegal vehicle modifications and reduce motorcycle-related fatalities across the country.