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Malaysia Driving Guide

Discover Driving Tips from Zest in Malaysia!

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A fresh, honest approach to car rental

A bustling metropolis.

A wonderfully diverse country to explore, no two places are the same. Driving gives you the freedom to travel the length and breadth of the country and unearth some of Malaysia’s riches at your own pace.

Make the drive between Kuala Lumpur and Penang Island to compare two of Malaysia’s biggest cities. Or, spend some time in the Cameron Highlands before journeying to Taman Negara Rainforest and marvel at the changing landscape. Don’t limit yourself to one destination when you visit Malaysia.

Read our Malaysia travel guide. You may also like to view information about destinations in Malaysia.

Malaysian Driving Laws

  • Driving licence: Always carry your I.D, passport and a valid driving license with you.
  • Which side of the road do they drive on? Drive on the left, overtake on the right.
  • Seat belts: Seat belts must be worn in both the front and back seats at all times.
  • Blood alcohol limit: The blood alcohol limit is 80mg alcohol per 100ml blood.
  • Can I use a mobile? It’s illegal to use a mobile unless you have a hands-free kit.
  • On the spot fines: The police can issue on the spot fines but an attempt to pay immediately can result in your fine going in the officer’s back pocket.
  • Other motorists: Do not stop if another motorist passes by and tells you that there is something wrong with your car. Keep driving and pull into the nearest well-lit service station.

Learn emergency vehicle signals. Police lights are red and blue. Do not stop for flashing white headlights alone.

What should I do if I breakdown?

If you breakdown, call your rental provider who will be able to advise you further. If your car breaks down on a major road, lock the doors, turn on the hazard lights and wait for the Police to arrive. If someone offers help, have them call the Police.

It is recommended you contact ourselves at the same time to ensure you follow the correct procedure.

What should I do if I have an accident?

If you’re in an accident, you MUST notify the Police and the car rental supplier and get an accident report for insurance purposes. Failure to do so may result in you footing the whole bill. It is recommended that you contact us at the same time to ensure you follow the correct procedure.

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Travel tips and blogs

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Articles about Malaysia

Places to hire in Malaysia

  • Kota Kinabalu
  • Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
  • Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL)
  • Langkawi Airport (LGK)
  • Penang International Airport (PEN)

Average customer rating for car hire in Malaysia

(4 out of 5.00) based on 1 responses to our customer survey.

Speed limits

  • Motorways - 110 kph / 68 mph
  • Open roads - 90 kph / 56 mph
  • Built up areas - 60 kph / 37 mph

Phone numbers

  • Police - 112
  • Fire - 112
  • Ambulance - 112

Useful phrases

  • Danger - Bahaya
  • Exit - Keluar
  • Filling station - Stesen pengisian
  • Prohibited - Dilarang
  • Right of way - Kanan jalan
  • Roadworks - Kerja pembaikan jalan
  • Slow - Lambat
  • Danger - Bahaya

Fuel

Credit cards are generally accepted across fuel stations in Malaysia.

Malaysia travel guide
Malaysia overview