Starting from October 1, 2024, Singaporean motorists with outstanding traffic fines in Malaysia will face enforcement action under the new Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) system. According to the Malaysian Road Transport Department (RTD), the enforcement of the VEP will be phased between October 1 and December 31, 2024. During this period, foreign vehicles with unpaid fines will still be permitted to enter and exit Malaysia, as the focus will be on raising awareness among drivers.

However, from January 1, 2025, full enforcement will be implemented. The RTD urges foreign vehicle owners with outstanding summonses to settle their fines starting from October 1 to avoid penalties before leaving Malaysia. The department aims to encourage compliance through advocacy during the initial phase before transitioning to stricter enforcement in the new year.

According to NST, the VEP system, which will be enforced on all foreign vehicles entering Malaysia from Singapore, is designed to track traffic offenses more effectively. It was previously reported that Singaporean motorists have accumulated a staggering 35,011 unpaid traffic fines in Malaysia since 1990, amounting to an estimated RM3.5 million. This backlog of unpaid fines highlights the need for a more rigorous system to ensure compliance.

With the implementation of the VEP, authorities will have a robust mechanism to monitor and enforce traffic regulations. Foreign vehicle owners who fail to comply with the VEP regulations could face penalties, including fines of up to RM2,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.

The RTD-phased approach to enforcing the VEP system underscores the importance of compliance for foreign motorists. As Malaysia tightens its grip on unpaid traffic fines, Singaporean drivers are encouraged to address any outstanding summonses promptly to avoid severe consequences.

Source: NST