Uncommon, But It Exists
Some driving habits may seem perfectly normal simply because many Malaysians do them every daybut that doesn't necessarily make them legal.
From failing to report a minor accident to staying in the overtaking lane for too long, there are several lesser-known road rules that could still get drivers into trouble.
Here are some surprising offences every Malaysian driver should know about.
Failing To Report An Accident
Think you can skip making a report because the damage is minor or both parties agreed to settle privately?
Not quite.
Under Malaysian law, drivers involved in a road accident are generally required to report it to the police within 24 hourseven if the accident appears minor or both parties have agreed on a private settlement.
Failing to do so may result in legal action.
Penalty:
First conviction: Fine of up to RM2,000, imprisonment of up to 6 months, or both.
Subsequent conviction: Fine of up to RM4,000, imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both.
Not Using A Child Restraint System
Malaysia introduced its Child Restraint System (CRS) policy in January 2020 to improve child passenger safety.
Appropriate child seats should comply with recognised UN R44 or UN R129 safety standards.
While the requirement exists, the official information currently available from JPJ does not clearly specify a fixed court penalty solely for failing to use a CRS. Nevertheless, parents and guardians are encouraged to comply for their children's safety.
Overtaking From The Left
See a slow-moving car in the right lane and think it's okay to pass on the left?
Generally, no.
On Malaysian roads, overtaking should normally be done from the right-hand lane. Deliberately using the left lane to overtake another vehicle may amount to a traffic offence.
Possible compound:
RM150 to RM300, depending on when payment is made.
The offence may also carry KEJARA demerit points.
Hogging The Overtaking Lane
Driving at the speed limit doesn't automatically give you the right to remain in the fast lane.
The right lane is generally meant for overtaking. Once you've completed your manoeuvre, drivers are expected to return to the left lane unless road markings or traffic conditions require otherwise.
Remaining in the overtaking lane unnecessarily may result in enforcement action.
Possible compound:
RM150 to RM300, depending on when payment is made.
Carrying Too Many Passengers
Every passenger should have a proper seat and wear the seat belt provided.
Allowing extra passengers to sit without designated seats or restraints may breach vehicle-use and seat belt requirements.
Possible penalty (seat belt-related offences):
First conviction: Fine of up to RM2,000, imprisonment of up to 6 months, or both.
Subsequent conviction: Fine of up to RM4,000, imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both.
Eating, Applying Makeup Or Reaching For Objects While Driving
Eating behind the wheel, touching up your makeup or reaching for something isn't automatically illegal.
However, if these actions distract you and cause you to drive without proper care and attention for example by swerving, reacting too slowly or losing control you could be investigated for careless driving.
Possible penalty for careless driving:
Fine of RM5,000 to RM10,000.
Imprisonment of up to 12 months.
For repeat offences, higher fines may apply under the law.
Playing Music Too Loudly
There's no law that automatically makes loud music inside your car illegal.
However, if the volume prevents you from hearing emergency sirens, warning horns or other important soundsor it distracts you from driving safelyit may contribute to a careless driving offence.
Possible penalty for careless driving:
Fine of RM5,000 to RM10,000.
Imprisonment of up to 12 months.
Cloudy Headlamps Or Hard-To-See Signal Lights
Headlamps and signal lights aren't just there to help you see they also help other road users see you.
Cloudy lenses, heavily tinted covers or damaged lights that significantly reduce visibility may breach vehicle equipment requirements.
Possible compound:
RM150 to RM300, depending on when payment is made.
Constantly Adjusting The Radio While Driving
Changing a song or adjusting the volume isn't automatically an offence.
However, repeatedly taking your eyes off the road, leaning towards the dashboard or struggling with the controls could become a problem if it causes you to drive carelessly.
If your attention is diverted and it affects your control of the vehicle, you may be investigated for careless driving.
Possible penalty for careless driving:
Fine of RM5,000 to RM10,000.
Imprisonment of up to 12 months.
Drive Safely Even When The Rules Seem Small
Many of these situations aren't offences simply because you perform the action itself. Instead, they become illegal when they compromise road safety or breach specific traffic regulations.
Understanding these lesser-known rules can help you avoid unnecessary summonses, protect other road users and make Malaysian roads safer for everyone.
