Penang has become the first state in Malaysia to launch a community-driven initiative aimed at addressing the long-standing issue of abandoned vehicles in high-rise residential areas. The programme, known as Skim Strata Bebas Kenderaan Usang, was officially rolled out at Flat Turnkey Sri Pinang and jointly officiated by Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Penang’s Local Government Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye.

Also present at the launch were Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.

Loke praised Penang’s proactive leadership, describing the scheme as a model of collaboration between the state, local councils, the federal ministry, and private stakeholders. “This programme is a shining example of cooperation that should be emulated nationwide,” he said.

He highlighted the multiple problems caused by abandoned vehicles in strata schemes, including the occupation of scarce parking spaces, heightened community tensions, public health risks from mosquito and pest breeding, and potential misuse for criminal activities.

To overcome legal and financial hurdles in vehicle disposal, the Ministry of Transport has introduced the e-Deregistration (e-Dereg) system, which allows owners to deregister and scrap vehicles in a fast, legal, and transparent manner. The process can be completed online in under five minutes, eliminating the need for physical presence at Road Transport Department (JPJ) offices.

Through collaboration with licensed Authorised Automotive Treatment Facilities (AATF), such as Car Medic, scrapped vehicles are handled in an environmentally safe way. Loke commended Penang’s decision to integrate the system into its community-scale programme, calling it a breakthrough in cutting bureaucratic red tape and costs for residents.

As a symbolic gesture of leadership, H’ng announced he would be the first vehicle owner in Penang to deregister and scrap his car under the initiative. “This is our commitment to lead by example and to show that the state government is serious in freeing strata communities from the burden of abandoned vehicles,” he said.

Both Loke and H’ng urged joint management bodies (JMBs), management committees (MCs), and residents to spread awareness and encourage participation. They stressed that the initiative is not merely about clearing unsightly vehicles but about improving safety, public health, and quality of life in high-rise communities.

MBPP, which spearheaded the programme, was also commended for its role in shaping the initiative. H’ng reiterated that Penang remains among the first states to implement an integrated solution to tackle abandoned vehicles effectively.

“This scheme is not a minor matter. It directly affects the image, comfort, and safety of our neighbourhoods,” he said. “With strong collaboration between all parties, I am confident we can create cleaner, safer, and more organised strata housing areas.”

Penang’s pioneering effort is expected to set a precedent for other states to adopt similar solutions, creating a more sustainable and liveable urban environment nationwide.

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