Illegal Racing Faces Tougher Penalties In Transport Law Update

New road transport bill is drawing attention as the bill gives enforcement agencies a stronger legal framework.

Malaysia’s Transport Ministry has tabled the first reading of the 2026 Road Transport Act amendments in the Dewan Rakyat.

The bill covers 11 key changes and proposes raising the maximum compound for several common offences from RM300 to RM500.

The affected offences include driving without a licence, speeding, failing to renew road tax, skipping required vehicle inspections and beating red lights.

Illegal racing and speed-test activities would become specific offences, with first-time offenders facing a fine of RM2,000 to RM10,000 or up to two years in jail.

Repeat offenders could face heavier penalties, while the proposal also tightens rules against obstructing or exposing enforcement operations.