Road Transport Act 1987

The Road Transport Act 1987 (Malay: Akta Pengangkutan Jalan 1987) is a significant piece of legislation enacted by the Parliament of Malaysia. This Act was established to regulate various aspects of road transport, including the use of motor vehicles, the licensing of drivers, and the enforcement of traffic laws within Malaysia.

Purpose and Scope

The primary purpose of the Road Transport Act 1987 is to ensure safe and efficient road transport systems by providing comprehensive guidelines and regulations. The Act covers a wide range of topics, including:

Vehicle Registration and Licensing: All motor vehicles in Malaysia must be registered as per the provisions of the Act. It also mandates that drivers possess a valid driving licence to operate vehicles on public roads.
Traffic Regulations: The Act defines traffic rules and regulations aimed at ensuring the safety of road users. This includes speed limits, road signs, and the rules of the road.
Enforcement and Penalties: The Act empowers the Road Transport Department of Malaysia to enforce these regulations. It outlines penalties for violations such as reckless and dangerous driving, which is addressed under specific sections of the Act.

Key Provisions

Vehicle and Driver Licensing

Under Section 26(1) of the Act, it is illegal to drive a motor vehicle on a road without holding a valid driving licence. This ensures that only competent individuals are permitted to operate vehicles, which is crucial for maintaining road safety.

Road Signs and Regulations

The Act also categorizes road signs under various road types, such as federal, state, and municipal roads. For example, blue traffic signs are used for roads of different categories as specified under Chapter 67 of the Act.

Enforcement

The enforcement of the Road Transport Act 1987 is primarily the responsibility of the Road Transport Department, as well as other law enforcement agencies. These bodies are tasked with ensuring compliance with road traffic rules, vehicle registration, and driver licensing regulations.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The Act specifies various penalties for non-compliance, including fines and imprisonment for serious offenses such as dangerous driving. Section 41(1) of the Act differentiates between reckless and dangerous driving, each carrying its own set of penalties.