SHAH ALAM: More than 90% percent of the 35,000 participants in the MyLesen programme have completed their training and obtained driving licences, says Anthony Loke.
The Transport Minister noted that the remaining beneficiaries, who are part of the programme offering free licences to the B40 group and youths, are still undergoing training and testing, expected to be completed by the end of this year.
"The allocation for the MyLesen Programme this year is limited to 35,000 recipients nationwide, and so far, 30,000 have completed training and testing, obtaining their licences.
"The programme has seen high demand, with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) receiving over 130,000 applications, though only a portion are eligible after screening based on set conditions," he said at the closing of the Selangor State Level MyLesen programme at the state JPJ on Thursday (Nov 7).
Loke stated that due to its high demand and benefits, the MyLesen Programme will continue next year, aiming to help more B40 groups and youths acquire driving licences.
He anticipates an increase in participants and mentioned the ministry is exploring alternatives to secure additional funding, complementing the assistance from the unity government.
"The MyLesen programme is part of the government's efforts to continuously benefit target groups in the country. It not only helps improve their economy and income but also encourages the community to drive legally and produce competent motorcyclists," he said.
When tabling Budget 2025, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced continued government support for motorcycle licence assistance for 15,000 underprivileged youths, including secondary school students, undergraduates, and job-seeking youths.
Regarding the MyLesen programme at the Selangor level, Loke highlighted that 2,175 out of the 2,645 participants have successfully completed the programme, receiving B2, PSV e-Hailing, PSV Bus, and GDL Lorry licences.
The MyLesen programme aims to assist the B40 group and youths in obtaining motorcycle licences (Class B2), Public Service Vehicle Licences (PSV) for e-hailing and buses, as well as Goods Driving Licences (GDL) for lorries.
Introduced under the Budget 2023 initiative, the programme seeks to enhance employment opportunities in the logistics, public transport, and tourism sectors, thereby improving the income and socio-economic status of participants. – Bernama