SHAH ALAM, MALAYSIA: The Malaysian Road Transport Department (JPJ) seized 21 vehicles, mostly luxury multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs), for operating illegal taxi services aimed at tourists.

The crackdown, led by JPJ director-general Aedy Fadly Ramli, followed complaints that tourists were being overcharged for their journeys.

In one case, a tourist paid RM993 (S$299) for a trip from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, where the usual rate is approximately RM300.

“We are clamping down on such illegal activities as it tarnishes the country’s image,” Mr Aedy Fadly said during a press conference at the Selangor JPJ on Thursday (12 Sept).

This marked the first time the JPJ conducted operations against illegal taxis and touts in key hotels and tourist spots in the Klang Valley.

Traditionally, such operations were focused on airports across the country, but the recent surge in complaints prompted action in other areas.

The operation, which took place between 2 and 6 September, saw 35 vehicles inspected by JPJ enforcement officers, with 21 subsequently impounded.

“A total of 21 summonses were issued to vehicle owners and drivers for misuse of their Motor Vehicle Licenses,” Mr Aedy Fadly added.

Offenders face fines ranging from RM1,000 to RM10,000 or up to two years’ imprisonment.

Illegal taxi services, often assisted by third parties, have reportedly been in operation for some time.

Mr Aedy Fadly emphasized that the JPJ plans to collaborate with tourism authorities to enhance enforcement and curb these illegal activities.

Furthermore, the special operations are expected to expand nationwide, ensuring the protection of Malaysia’s reputation as a tourist destination.

MALAYSIA: A 77-year-old Malaysian man, Zulkifly Abdullah, has proven that education is indeed a lifelong journey by graduating with a Bachelor of Law degree from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) in Selangor, Malaysia, on 4 September.

While many in their 70s may enjoy a quiet retirement, Zulkifly instead completed his second university degree in his golden years.

Zulkifly, a retired human resources officer and father of five, began his part-time law studies in 2018 and completed the program in December 2023.

His achievement has garnered significant attention online, with a video of his graduation, posted on UiTM’s official TikTok account, going viral on 9 September.

The clip, which shows Zulkifly smiling as he receives his scroll onstage to loud cheers and applause, has amassed over 950,000 views as of 13 September.

@uitm_channel

Warga emas berusia 77 tahun dari jurusan Sarjana Muda Pengajian Undang-Undang, Fakulti Undang-Undang naik pentas menerima skrol di #istiadatkonvokesyenuitm99 #Konvoksyen99 #konvo99 #usahatakwamulia #uitmdihatiku

♬ original sound – UiTM Channel – UiTM Channel

This is Zulkifly’s second degree earned during retirement. He first returned to school at the age of 60, enrolling at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) from 2007 to 2011, where he completed a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in History.

His decision to study law came from personal interest, particularly due to his prior work in a ministry dealing with legal regulations.

In an interview with The New Straits Times, Zulkifly acknowledged the challenges of studying in his later years, especially in retaining information, but credited his family, lecturers, and classmates for their unwavering support.

He often discussed legal matters with his son, a lawyer, and sought clarification on various topics from him.

Reflecting on his journey, Zulkifly emphasised the importance of lifelong learning.

“Education is a lifelong journey. Law requires consistent reading and effort. If you have the opportunity, continue learning regardless of your age,” he said.