MANY Malaysians have heard the warning at some point: don't drive barefoot or you'll get a summons.
Perhaps it was from a driving instructor, a concerned parent or even a friend who swore they knew someone who got fined for it.
The belief that driving without shoes is against the law is so widespread that many motorists religiously keep a pair of shoes in their car just in case.
But is it actually illegal to drive barefoot in Malaysia?
Verdict:
FALSE (for drivers of private cars, that is)
Prominent lawyer Datuk Baljit Singh told The Star in 2021 that there were no rules against drivers of private vehicles driving barefoot or wearing slippers.
“Such rules do not apply to drivers of personal vehicles, but when operating commercial vehicles, drivers must wear shoes, not slippers," he said.
However, the rules are different for commercial vehicles, such as taxis, e-hailing cars, buses and lorries, he said.
Under the Public Service Vehicles (Licensing and Conduct of Drivers, Conductors and Passengers) Rules 1959, drivers of public service vehicles are required to wear footwear whilst on duty.
“This is very clear, and all commercial vehicle drivers should know this,” he told The Star.
The Road Transport Department also confirmed that public service vehicle drivers could be fined RM150 for not being neatly dressed or not having footwear whilst driving.
These drivers hold a Public Service Vehicles licence and are required to maintain a professional appearance, which includes wearing shoes.
For private vehicle drivers with a Competent Driver's Licence, there are no such restrictions. You are free to dress as you wish whilst driving, including wearing slippers or going barefoot.
That said, just because something is legal doesn't necessarily mean it's safe. Whilst your choice of footwear won't get you a traffic summons, it could still land you in trouble if it contributes to a driving error.
If your footwear, or lack thereof, obstructs the pedals or causes you to lose control of your vehicle, authorities may consider it careless or reckless driving under Section 43(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. This offence carries a fine of up to RM10,000 or imprisonment for up to 12 months upon conviction.
Safety experts and driving instructors generally advise against driving barefoot or in slippers.
Driving without proper footwear can decrease grip on pedals, especially if your feet are wet, cause footwear to slip off and get trapped under the pedal, and make it harder to gauge pressure on the accelerator or brake.
The Road Safety Department and local driving schools often recommend wearing secure, flat shoes with thin soles for optimal pedal control.
In an emergency situation, you'll want as much protection around your feet as possible, and you won't have time to search for shoes if you need to make a quick exit after an accident.
So whilst you won't get a summons for driving barefoot in your private car, it's still wise to keep a pair of proper driving shoes handy for both safety and control.
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