No, driving without a shirt in Malaysia violates the Road Transport Act 1987 and Land Public Transport Act 2010, risking fines up to RM1,000 or imprisonment under Section 43. Local authorities like the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Road Transport Department (JPJ) enforce attire standards for road safety and decency. While no explicit law bans shirtless driving, Section 41(1) empowers officers to penalize “improper attire” obstructing safe vehicle operation. Recent 2026 JPJ circulars emphasize stricter enforcement to align with ASEAN road safety protocols.
Key Regulations for Driving Without a Shirt in Malaysia
- Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987: Authorizes police to penalize drivers wearing attire deemed unsafe or indecent, including shirtless driving, if it impairs vehicle control or visibility.
- Land Public Transport Act 2010 (Section 76): Applies to commercial drivers (e.g., taxis, buses), mandating professional attire; violations may result in license suspension.
- JPJ Circular 2026/03: Directs enforcement agencies to treat shirtless driving as a traffic offense under “distraction to other road users,” aligning with ASEAN Road Safety Plan 2030.