Show us the figures on old cars IT is surprising that the government wants to subject cars older than 10 years to an inspection for road tax renewals from next year. The reasons do not make any sense to the owners. First, we are far from being a developed nation that needs regulations that further burden the public, especially the lower-income groups. Second, have the relevant agencies done their homework in recognising that many owners of "old" cars have maintained their vehicles in tip-top condition. I am a proud owner of a 15-year-old Nissan Sunny that has served me well with minimal maintenance cost. It is economical and and has not once broken down. Mandatory inspections will require us to spend at least one whole day at Puspakom and it also means forking out more money. Is this policy in line with the 1Malaysia concept? Before such a move was suggested, the authorities should have shown the public the statistics as to how many vehicles more than 10 years old are the cause of accidents. This policy is not only a burden to car owners but also brings us to the issue of priorities. The authorities seem to be pushing those with old cars to buy new models. Such policies do not reflect well for a caring government. What will the recourse be for a 60-year-old retiree when told that his or her old vehicle is not roadworthy. Which bank will provide an elderly applicant a car loan to buy a new car? It can be depressing to the retiree and his or her family’s mobility may be compromised. And last, what are the inspection tests? It will be improper to apply the same standards used for new cars. Will this be transparent so as to ensure that elements of corruption do not creep in? It is high time the related agencies do a reality check on the ground before making policies. Retrospective corrections seem to be the order of the day. Narinder Pal Singh Shah Alam
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