KAJANG, Sept 23 — The Transport Ministry (MOT) has agreed to allow Recreational Vehicle (RV) services to be licensed and regulated for commercial use, effective January 1, 2026.
Its minister Anthony Loke said the move is to support the growth of the RV-based tourism segment, which has shown positive development.
The new policy will also permit RVs to be used as Self-Drive Tourist Hire Vehicles in Peninsular Malaysia, and as Self-Drive Hire Cars in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan.
“Implementation will be limited to new vehicles, either Completely Knocked Down (CKD) or Completely Built Up (CBU) units, effective January 1, 2026,” he said after the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Road Transport Department (JPJ) Kajang Office today.
Loke clarified that privately owned RVs registered before December 31, 2025, may be commercialised, provided they are not more than 15 years old and pass a technical inspection to be specified by RTD.
The MOT and the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry (Motac) will also explore implementing a 'single window' system for RV licence applications to streamline the process.
"So any new RV intended for rental would only require a single permit from Motac to be used for tourism activities, as this falls beyond MOT's jurisdiction," he said.
The minister emphasised that this licensing measure is crucial for regulating operations, ensuring safety, and protecting renters' interests through the enforcement of stipulated permits.
Commenting on the case of an illegal driver overcharging a foreign tourist over RM800, Loke said these individuals typically rent cars to run unauthorised transport services.
"Their modus operandi is simple. They use cars they do not own, so if the vehicle is seized or impounded, they are not affected. In fact, the daily profit from just one customer can reach hundreds of ringgit," he said.
Loke added that JPJ will step up enforcement against these touts at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), with ongoing surveillance and operations to eradicate such activities.
"We will also review whether existing legal provisions are sufficient or need to be strengthened to send a clear message that this behaviour will not be tolerated," he said.
Meanwhile, the RM22.7 million project to construct the new JPJ Kajang branch office began on April 10 and is scheduled for completion in April 2027.
Loke said the two-storey, 2,678-square-metre building features a modern design focused on accessibility and customer convenience.
Facilities will include more comfortable service counters, meeting rooms, a prayer room, ample parking, and disability-friendly amenities, with a capacity to serve up to 150 visitors at a time.
“Its strategic location, near industrial and residential areas as well as the KLIA, is expected to directly benefit the community by enhancing logistical networks, boosting business, and creating new job opportunities,” he said.
