KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian government is proposing new changes to the law that will increase the minimum fine from RM300 to RM500 for driving without a driving licence and speeding, and also to introduce the new specific crime of road racing.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke yesterday said the higher financial penalties are not aimed at burdening the public or increasing the government revenue, but to increase compliance with road safety laws.

Here is Malay Mail’s quick summary of what you should know about the proposed changes to the Road Transport Act, based on the Bill to amend it and Loke’s explanations yesterday in Parliament:

New: Racing OR speed trial on the road (even if no accidents happen)

Illegal racers in Malaysia are currently charged with “dangerous driving”, but the government wants to create new specific offences to send a clear message that public roads are not for racing.

This will be a seizable offence, so the police, road transport officers or traffic wardens can arrest you without a warrant if you are a suspect.

The penalty proposed for first-time racing convictions will be a maximum RM10,000 fine or maximum two years’ jail or both; while convictions for the second or more offences will result in a maximum RM20,000 fine or maximum five years’ jail or both.

Even racing with micromobility vehicles (such as e-scooters) will also be a crime, but with a maximum penalty of RM1,000.

This will enable authorities to take action without waiting for tragedies to happen, and even when an illegal racing activity does not cause injuries, deaths or accidents.