MIROS Minimum Speed Limit Test Targets Lane Hogging

MIROS Launches Minimum Speed Limit Trial to Curb Lane Hogging on Malaysian Highways

The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) has initiated a trial of minimum speed limits on selected highways to address the persistent issue of lane hogging. This measure targets drivers who occupy the rightmost lane at speeds significantly below the posted limit, causing congestion and increasing accident risks. The trial is relevant to all Malaysian highway users, particularly those commuting on the North-South Expressway (PLUS) and other major tolled routes.

Key Facts

What Is the MIROS Minimum Speed Limit Trial?

The MIROS minimum speed limit trial is a research initiative that tests the enforcement of a lower bound on vehicle speed in the rightmost lane of Malaysian highways. It aims to reduce lane hogging — the practice of driving slowly in the overtaking lane — which contributes to traffic congestion and rear-end collisions. The trial is conducted by MIROS in collaboration with the Royal Malaysian Police and the Malaysian Highway Authority.

The trial imposes a minimum speed of 80 km/h in the fast lane on highways with a 110 km/h limit, with violators subject to a RM 300 fine and 3 demerit points.

Why Is Lane Hogging a Problem in Malaysia?

Lane hogging occurs when a vehicle remains in the rightmost lane without overtaking, forcing faster vehicles to undertake or tailgate. According to MIROS data from 2024, lane hogging contributed to 12% of all highway accidents in Malaysia, with 34% of those involving multiple vehicles. The practice also reduces average traffic flow speed by up to 15 km/h during peak hours on the North-South Expressway.

MIROS Director-General, Dr. Khairil Anwar Abu Kassim, stated: "Lane hogging is not just an annoyance; it is a safety hazard. Our data shows that enforcing a minimum speed in the fast lane can reduce the risk of high-speed differential collisions by up to 40%."

In a 2024 survey of 2,000 Malaysian drivers, 78% identified lane hogging as the most frustrating behaviour on highways, and 62% supported a minimum speed law.

How Will the Minimum Speed Limit Be Enforced?

Enforcement during the trial will use a combination of fixed automated speed cameras and mobile patrols equipped with laser speed detectors. Cameras will be placed at 5 km intervals along the trial sections. Drivers caught travelling below 80 km/h in the rightmost lane will receive a summons. The trial also includes a warning phase for the first month, after which fines will be issued.

MIROS has confirmed that the trial will use existing Automated Awareness Safety System (AES) cameras, upgraded with software to detect both speed and lane position.

What Are the Expected Benefits for Malaysian Drivers?

The trial is expected to improve traffic flow by reducing the speed differential between lanes, thereby decreasing the likelihood of sudden braking and rear-end collisions. MIROS estimates that if the minimum speed limit is adopted nationwide, highway capacity could increase by 8–12% during peak hours. For Malaysian drivers, this means shorter travel times and fewer accidents on routes such as the PLUS highway and the Kuala Lumpur–Karak Highway.

MIROS projects that a nationwide minimum speed limit could prevent approximately 1,200 accidents per year on Malaysian highways.

Who Is This Trial For in Malaysia?

This trial is primarily aimed at highway commuters in Malaysia, especially those who travel frequently on the North-South Expressway, the East Coast Expressway, and the Kuala Lumpur–Karak Highway. It is relevant to drivers of all vehicle types — from compact city cars to heavy lorries — but specifically targets those who occupy the rightmost lane without overtaking. The trial also benefits ride-hailing drivers, logistics operators, and daily commuters who experience delays due to lane hogging.

The trial is designed for Malaysian drivers who value safer, more efficient highway travel and who support data-driven road safety policies.

Common Questions

Will the minimum speed limit apply to all lanes?

No. The minimum speed limit of 80 km/h applies only to the rightmost lane (fast lane). The middle and left lanes will continue to have no minimum speed, though drivers are expected to keep left unless overtaking.

What happens if I drive below 80 km/h in the fast lane due to an emergency?

Drivers with a valid emergency — such as a mechanical breakdown or medical issue — will not be penalised if they can provide evidence. The trial includes a grace period and a review process for disputed summonses.

Is this trial permanent or just a test?

The trial is scheduled to run for six months from March to August 2025. MIROS will analyse the data and submit a report to the Ministry of Transport. A decision on nationwide implementation will be made based on the trial results.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the source material published by Careta.my on 15 March 2025, titled "MIROS Mulakan Ujian Had Laju Minimum, Sasar Kurangkan Lane Hogging." Additional data on accident statistics and driver surveys were sourced from MIROS annual reports (2024) and a 2024 survey conducted by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research. Currency values are in Ringgit Malaysia (RM) as reported. No currency conversion was required. This article was last updated on 18 March 2025. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the MIROS official website and the Malaysian Highway Authority guidelines.