PUTRAJAYA: The Road Transport (Amendment) Act 2026, which amends the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333), is now in effect.
New provisions are introduced to curb illegal street racing and tonto syndicate activities, strengthen enforcement and accelerate the digitalisation of Road Transport Department (JPJ) services.
The Transport Ministry said the Act, which contains 42 amendment clauses, was part of the government’s efforts to improve road safety, strengthen enforcement and modernise JPJ service delivery.
According to the ministry, one of the key changes is the introduction of Section 42A, which makes racing or testing speed on public roads a specific offence.
“This provision enables enforcement action to be taken without having to wait for an accident, injury or loss of life to occur,” the ministry said yesterday, Bernama reported.
For the first conviction, offenders may be fined between RM2,000 and RM10,000, jailed up to two years or both.
For the second or subsequent conviction, offenders may be fined between RM5,000 and RM20,000, jailed up to five years or both.
The ministry said the Act also introduces Section 110B to address tonto syndicate activities that obstruct or interfere with enforcement operations, including tailing enforcement vehicles and relaying information about operations.
“Those convicted of the offence may be fined between RM10,000 and RM50,000, jailed between one and five years or both. The offence is also categorised as an arrestable offence,” it said.
It said other amendments strengthen the accountability of registered vehicle owners for offences detected by enforcement cameras, including automated enforcement systems.
“These amendments aim to close legal loopholes that could allow certain parties to evade responsibility for offences committed using their vehicles,” it said.
The ministry said the amendments also strengthen the legal basis for the use of electronic licences, documents, records and notices, while paving the way for digital accident reporting in accordance with prescribed procedures.
“The ministry believes that the implementation of the amendments to Act 333 will strengthen enforcement agencies’ ability to curb activities that endanger road safety, while making public services more convenient through the use of technology and digital services,” it said.
The ministry further said the increase in the quantum for compoundable offences from RM300 to RM500 would take effect on Jan 1, 2029 to accommodate the transition.
It clarified that the increase did not mean all traffic offences would automatically incur a RM500 compound, as the amount would depend on the type of offence and the rules prescribed under Act 333.
“The measure aims to improve legal compliance and provide a more effective deterrent, rather than burdening the public or increasing government revenue,” it said.
