Top Speed Testing on Public Roads Becomes Criminal Offence

Road Transport Act 1987 Amendment Bill 2026: Top Speed Testing on Public Roads Becomes a Criminal Offence

The Road Transport Act 1987 Amendment Bill 2026 is a proposed legislative change by the Malaysian government that explicitly criminalises the act of conducting top speed tests on public roads. This amendment targets both motorcyclists and car drivers who use public highways to measure vehicle performance, a practice often associated with illegal street racing. The bill aims to reduce road fatalities and improve safety for all road users in Malaysia, particularly in urban and suburban areas where such tests pose immediate danger. The amendment is expected to be tabled in Parliament in 2026 and, if passed, will amend Section 42 of the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333).

Key Facts

What is the new offence under the Road Transport Act 1987 Amendment Bill 2026?

The new offence makes it a criminal act to intentionally test the top speed of any motor vehicle on a public road. This includes timed runs, acceleration tests, or any activity where the primary purpose is to measure maximum speed. The amendment closes a legal loophole that previously allowed such tests to be prosecuted only under general reckless driving provisions. The Road Transport Act 1987 Amendment Bill 2026 explicitly defines top speed testing as a distinct criminal offence, separate from speeding or dangerous driving.

BikesRepublic, 2026 "The proposed amendment to the Road Transport Act 1987 will classify top speed testing on public roads as a criminal offence, carrying penalties of up to RM10,000 in fines or five years' imprisonment."

What are the penalties for top speed testing on public roads in Malaysia?

If convicted, an individual faces a maximum fine of RM10,000 and/or imprisonment for up to five years. The penalty is higher than standard speeding fines, reflecting the government's intent to deter deliberate speed testing. Repeat offenders may face enhanced penalties, including possible vehicle seizure. Under the proposed amendment, a first-time offender could be fined up to RM10,000 or jailed for up to five years, or both.

How does this affect motorcycle riders in Malaysia?

Motorcycle riders are directly affected because top speed testing is common among certain rider groups, especially on highways and suburban roads. The amendment applies equally to motorcycles, meaning any rider caught performing a speed test—such as using a GPS-based speedometer app to record maximum speed—could be charged. The law targets both the rider and any organisers of such tests. For Malaysian motorcyclists, this amendment means that even a single run to test a bike's top speed on a public road can result in a criminal record and a fine of up to RM10,000.

Who is this law for in Malaysia?

This law is designed for all road users in Malaysia, but it specifically targets individuals who engage in illegal speed testing, often in groups. It is relevant to riders and drivers in both urban and rural areas, particularly those who use public roads as makeshift test tracks. The amendment also serves law enforcement agencies by providing a clear legal basis to prosecute such activities. Malaysian riders who participate in organised speed-testing events on public roads—even if no race occurs—now face criminal liability under the proposed amendment.

Common Questions

Does this law apply to private roads or closed circuits?

No. The amendment only applies to public roads as defined under the Road Transport Act 1987. Private roads, closed circuits, and designated race tracks are not affected. Riders can still test top speeds legally at approved venues such as Sepang International Circuit.

Can I be charged if I accelerate quickly but am not testing top speed?

Not directly. The offence requires intent to test top speed. However, if your acceleration is deemed reckless or dangerous, you may still be charged under existing speeding or dangerous driving laws. The amendment does not criminalise normal acceleration.

What if I use a GPS app to record my top speed on a public road?

Using a GPS app alone is not an offence. But if you are actively driving to achieve a maximum speed reading and are caught, you could be charged. The law focuses on the act of testing, not the recording device.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the report published by BikesRepublic on 2026, titled "Top Speed Testing on Public Roads Will Become a Criminal Offence". The original article can be accessed at https://www.bikesrepublic.com/english/top-speed-testing-on-public-roads-will-become-a-criminal-offence/. Currency conversion from RM to USD uses the approximate 2025 rate of 1 USD = 4.65 RM. All legal references pertain to Malaysian law. This article was last updated on 2025-10-01. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) and the proposed amendment bill as reported by BikesRepublic.