ALL drivers and passengers of express and tour buses in Malaysia will be required to wear seatbelts starting 1 July, in line with new safety enforcement measures announced by the Road Transport Department (JPJ).
JPJ Director-General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said the rule applies to all buses manufactured after January 2020. Buses built prior to this date will be granted a grace period to install the necessary seatbelt systems.
“The driver must ensure that all passengers are wearing seatbelts before the bus departs. Anyone who fails to comply will be fined RM300,” he said during a press conference following the JPJ Malaysia Loyalty Assembly in Kota Bharu today.
“Previously, we took an advocacy approach, but from 1 July onwards, enforcement will be strict,” he added.
Datuk Aedy explained that if a driver fails to remind passengers to fasten their seatbelts, the driver and the bus operator may also be issued fines.
“However, if the driver has reminded passengers and they still refuse to wear seatbelts, only the individual passengers will be fined. We will review CCTV footage to verify whether proper warnings were given,” he said.
JPJ has already held discussions with bus operators to ensure they are aware of the new regulations.
“We have issued clear guidelines, and there will be no compromise on enforcement moving forward,” he stated. “I urge all bus operators and passengers to adhere to the directives.” - June 29, 2025
