KOTA BARU: Motorcycle taxis from neighbouring countries are only allowed to enter this country within a distance of no more than two kilometres.
Kelantan Road Transport Department Director Mohd Misuari Abdullah said that if these taxis exceeded the two-kilometre limit, action may be taken to seize the vehicles.
He added that in addition to vehicle seizure, fines would also be issued to the operators.
"We continuously monitor to ensure they operate only within the allowed distance as agreed between Malaysia and Thailand.
"Our regulations apply specifically to motorbikes, meaning those entering the country must have complete documentation according to the established rules.
"If the documentation is incomplete, strict action will be taken. However, to date, vehicles entering the country have had complete documentation," he said.
Yesterday, Harian Metro reported complaints by local motorcycle taxi operators about getting two passengers a day or none at all due to the presence of over 100 motorcycle taxis from neighbouring countries.
These foreign motorcycle taxis were alleged to freely seek passengers in front of the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) Complex in Rantau Panjang, affecting local operators.
Harian Metro's survey around Rantau Panjang, especially near the ICQS, found that dozens of foreign motorcycle taxi operators were waiting and picking up passengers, whether they disembarked from buses or other transport.
Mohd Misuari said that while foreign motorcycle taxis can wait for passengers within the permitted distance, they must not disrupt traffic.
He added that if their presence is found to interfere with traffic, fines will also be issued.
"As long as they adhere to the regulations we set, they can operate and pick up passengers to transport them to neighboring countries.
"Activities including charging passengers fall under the jurisdiction of local authorities," he said.