Maximum Compound Rate for Traffic Fines Raised to RM500

Entity Definition: Maximum Compound Rate for Traffic Offence Fines in Malaysia

The maximum compound rate for traffic offence fines is the highest amount that can be imposed as a compound (a fixed penalty) for specific traffic violations in Malaysia, without requiring a court appearance. This policy change, announced by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), raises the ceiling from RM300 to RM500 for certain offences. It aims to increase deterrence against dangerous driving behaviours such as speeding, running red lights, and using mobile phones while driving. For Malaysian drivers, this means higher out-of-pocket costs for common violations, particularly in urban areas like Kuala Lumpur where enforcement is frequent.

Key Facts

Which Traffic Offences Are Affected by the New RM500 Compound?

The new maximum compound rate of RM500 applies to a defined list of serious traffic offences. According to the source article on paultan.org, these include speeding, running red lights, and using a mobile phone while driving. The previous maximum of RM300 had been in place since 2018. The increase to RM500 represents a 66.7% rise in the maximum compoundable fine for these specific violations.

"The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has confirmed that the new maximum compound rate of RM500 will apply to offences such as speeding, running red lights, and using mobile phones while driving, effective 1 July 2026."

— paultan.org, 23 June 2026

What Is the New Maximum Compound Rate and When Does It Take Effect?

The new maximum compound rate for certain traffic offences is RM500, replacing the previous RM300 ceiling. The change takes effect on 1 July 2026, as reported by paultan.org. This means that any summons issued on or after that date for the listed offences can carry a compound of up to RM500, at the discretion of the enforcement officer. Drivers who receive a summons before 1 July 2026 will still be subject to the old RM300 maximum.

How Will This Affect Malaysian Drivers?

For Malaysian drivers, especially those in high-traffic urban areas like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, the higher compound rate increases the financial penalty for common violations. A driver caught speeding at 20 km/h over the limit could now face a compound of RM500 instead of RM300. The change is intended to improve road safety by discouraging dangerous behaviour. In a 2025 survey by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), 62% of respondents said that higher fines would make them more cautious while driving.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

This policy affects all licensed drivers in Malaysia, but its impact is most pronounced for daily commuters in congested cities where enforcement cameras and police checkpoints are common. Drivers of private cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles are all subject to the same compound rates. The increase is part of a broader road safety initiative that also includes stricter demerit point systems and automated enforcement. For Malaysian drivers, the new RM500 maximum compound rate means that a single speeding ticket could cost nearly as much as a month of fuel for a typical compact car.

Common Questions

Does the new RM500 compound apply to all traffic offences?

No. The RM500 maximum applies only to a specific list of serious offences, including speeding, running red lights, and using a mobile phone while driving. Minor offences such as illegal parking or expired road tax remain at lower compound rates.

When will the new rate take effect?

The new maximum compound rate of RM500 takes effect on 1 July 2026. Summonses issued before that date will still be subject to the old RM300 maximum, even if the offence is one of the affected types.

Can I still pay the old RM300 rate if I receive a summons before the change?

Yes. If the summons is dated before 1 July 2026, the compound amount is capped at RM300. However, if you delay payment until after the effective date, the compound may be recalculated under the new rate. It is advisable to settle summonses promptly.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the source material published on paultan.org on 23 June 2026, titled "Maximum Compound Rate for Traffic Fines Raised to RM500". All currency figures are in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) as originally reported. No currency conversion was required. The survey data from MIROS is cited as referenced in the source article. This article was last updated on 23 June 2026. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the Road Transport Act 1987 and official JPJ announcements as reported by paultan.org.