How will Malaysia raise the minimum fine for speeding and unlicensed driving?

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Malaysia Proposes Increased Minimum Fine for Speeding and Unlicensed Driving

The Malaysian government is set to increase the minimum fine for specific traffic violations, including speeding and driving without a licence, from RM300 to RM500. This legislative adjustment aims to enhance adherence to road safety regulations by imposing higher financial penalties on offenders. Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that the objective is not to burden the public or increase government revenue, but rather to foster greater compliance with existing road safety laws.
Higher Minimum Fine for Key Offences

The proposed amendments to the Road Transport Act include a stipulation to raise the minimum fine for several offences to RM500. This specifically targets violations such as operating a vehicle without a valid driving licence, employing or permitting an unlicensed individual to drive, and exceeding the designated speed limits. The intention behind this measure is to underscore the seriousness of these infractions and encourage drivers to obtain the necessary licenses and adhere to posted speed limits.
Introduction of New Specific Offences

Beyond increasing existing fines, the government is also proposing the introduction of new, specific offences. A notable addition is the criminalisation of road racing, which will be treated as a distinct offence rather than being charged under general "dangerous driving" provisions. This aims to send a clear message that public roads are not designated for illegal racing activities. For first-time convictions of road racing, penalties could include a maximum fine of RM10,000 or a maximum two-year jail term, or both. Repeat offenders could face a maximum RM20,000 fine or a maximum five-year jail term, or both. Even racing with micromobility vehicles, such as e-scooters, will be a crime with a maximum penalty of RM1,000.
Increased Penalties for Driving While Disqualified

Furthermore, the proposed changes will introduce more stringent penalties for individuals caught driving while their licence is suspended or revoked. The maximum jail time for such an offence is slated to increase to three years, from the current one year, and the maximum fine will be raised to RM10,000, up from RM5,000. This measure addresses the serious nature of disregarding court orders that disqualify individuals from driving due to previous traffic offences.
Stricter Enforcement and Loopholes Addressed

The amendments also seek to strengthen enforcement mechanisms. For compoundable traffic offences, the maximum compound amount is proposed to increase to RM500 from the current RM300, with a planned implementation date of January 1, 2029, to allow for a transition period. Additionally, measures are being introduced to close the loophole where vehicle owners claim ignorance of who was driving their vehicle when an offence was recorded by camera. Under the proposed law, owners who allow others to use their vehicles will need to demonstrate reasonable steps taken to identify the driver, preventing them from escaping responsibility. Foreign and locally-registered vehicles with unpaid traffic summonses or unresolved breaches of transport laws may also be prevented from entering or exiting Malaysia.

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How will Malaysia raise the minimum fine for speeding and unlicensed driving?

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