KUALA LUMPUR: The Transport Ministry announced on Friday the appointment of three new companies to provide motor vehicle inspection services, ending the long-standing monopoly held by Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom).

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the move follows a Cabinet decision on March 17, 2023, to open up vehicle inspection services under the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) to other qualified companies.

The three appointed companies are Wawasan Bintang Sdn Bhd, which will operate in Port Klang (Selangor), Gua Musang (Kelantan), and Mersing (Johor); Pakatan Petroleum Sdn Bhd, which will serve Rawang (Selangor) and Temerloh (Pahang); and Beriman Gold Sdn Bhd, which will be based in Kuching and Serian (Sarawak).

Loke said the companies were selected based on key criteria, including financial stability, a minimum paid-up capital of RM10 million, private limited status, and local ownership.

The government said the decision to allow more companies to provide inspection services is in line with its policy to boost competition, improve service efficiency, and reduce reliance on Puspakom.