MALAYSIA will begin enforcing the mandatory use of speed limiter devices on heavy vehicles starting 1 October 2025, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced on Friday, outlining a three-phase rollout culminating in full implementation by July 2026.
“This is a crucial measure in our broader road safety strategy, particularly in response to recent fatal incidents involving commercial vehicles,” said Loke at a press conference.
Under the first phase, all tour and express buses, along with heavy commercial vehicles exceeding 3,500kg and registered after 1 January 2015, must obtain verification confirming that their speed limiter devices are in working order.
Verification may be acquired from vehicle manufacturers, technical service providers, accredited workshops, or bodies recognised by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and certified by the Department of Standards. The verification must be renewed biennially and presented during vehicle inspections for permit applications or renewals.
The second phase, commencing in January 2026, will extend the requirement to older vehicles registered prior to 1 January 2015. In these cases, the activation documentation must also be renewed every two years and carried in the vehicle at all times for inspection purposes.
The final phase, to be enforced from July 2026, will mandate the installation of compliant speed limiter devices in all heavy vehicles exceeding 3,500kg or carrying more than eight passengers if not already equipped.
“This staggered approach gives operators sufficient time to ensure compliance and upgrade their fleets,” said Loke, adding that the devices must conform to technical specifications laid out by JPJ.
The announcement follows a tragic accident on 9 June, in which a chartered bus carrying Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) students overturned on the East–West Highway near Gerik after colliding with a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Fifteen students lost their lives, while 33 others – including the drivers of both vehicles – sustained injuries. The bus driver has since been arrested.
The government is also finalising a comprehensive policy to ensure strict compliance and prevent any misuse or circumvention of the rules once in place.
Authorities believe the introduction of compulsory speed limiter systems will significantly reduce the risk of high-speed accidents involving heavy vehicles, particularly on long-haul routes. - June 13, 2025
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