No, metal detecting in Malaysian public parks is generally prohibited under the National Parks Act 1980 and state-level park regulations, with exceptions requiring written permits from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) or state authorities. Cultural heritage laws (e.g., National Heritage Act 2005) further restrict activities that may disturb artifacts. Violations risk fines up to RM100,000 or imprisonment under Section 42 of the National Parks Act.
Key Regulations for Metal Detecting in Public Parks in Malaysia
- National Parks Act 1980 (Act 226): Prohibits unauthorized removal or disturbance of natural or cultural resources in gazetted parks, including activities like metal detecting without a permit. State park authorities enforce this, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses.
- National Heritage Act 2005 (Act 645): Classifies archaeological artifacts as protected heritage. Detecting without a license from the Department of National Heritage (JWN) constitutes an offense under Section 70, punishable by fines up to RM500,000 or 5 years’ imprisonment.
- State-Specific Bylaws: Selangor’s Enakmen Taman Negeri Selangor 1987 and Johor’s Enakmen Taman Negeri Johor 1989 mirror federal laws, explicitly banning metal detecting in state parks. Johor’s 2023 amendments increased fines to RM50,000 for violations, aligning with 2026 national heritage compliance frameworks.