The Ministry of Transport Malaysia (MOT) has announced that the Road Transport (Amendment) Act 2026, which amends the Road Transport Act 1987 [Act 333], came into effect today (16 October).
The amendments are part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to improve road safety, strengthen enforcement and modernise the Road Transport Department’s (JPJ) services to keep up with technological developments and current needs, as reported by Malaysia Gazette.
Crack down on illegal street racing and ‘tonto’ activities
The amendments cover 42 clauses, including measures to crack down on illegal street racing and ‘tonto’ activities, as well as tougher penalties for forging vehicle documents.
Section 42A: Illegal street racing
- First conviction: Fine of RM2,000 to RM10,000 or imprisonment for up to two years.
- Repeat conviction: Fine of RM5,000 to RM20,000 or imprisonment for up to five years.
Section 110B: ‘Tonto’ activities
- Targets activities that interfere with enforcement operations, including tailing enforcement vehicles and leaking operational information to help others evade legal action.
- Offenders face fines of RM10,000 to RM50,000 or imprisonment for one to five years.
- The offence is classified as an arrestable offence, according to MOT.
Section 108: Tougher penalties for vehicle document forgery
- Targets falsified vehicle records and manipulated vehicle identities, including cloned vehicle cases.
- Certain offences carry fines of up to RM200,000, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both.
Maximum traffic compound increases to RM500 starting 2029
The amendments also strengthen technology-based enforcement under Section 53B, holding registered vehicle owners accountable for offences caught on enforcement cameras, including the Automated Enforcement System (AES).
JPJ’s digital services will also be expanded to include electronic licences, documents, records and notices, making vehicle and driver licensing easier while allowing for digital accident reporting.
The amendments also cover vehicle safety regulations for electric vehicles, modified vehicles, vehicle components and micromobility vehicles. Action can be taken against vehicles that fail to meet legal requirements or have unresolved issues.
Meanwhile, from 1 January 2029, the maximum compound amount for eligible traffic offences will increase from RM300 to RM500. However, this does not mean all traffic offences will automatically carry a RM500 compound, as the amount will depend on the type of offence and relevant regulations.
MOT added that the amendments aim to strengthen enforcement against activities that endanger road safety while making public services more convenient through digital technology.
“The Ministry urges all road users to always obey the law and cooperate with JPJ and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to ensure road safety is maintained.”
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