Is Nunchucks Legal in Malaysia After the 2026 Law Changes?

No, nunchucks are classified as prohibited weapons under Malaysia’s Arms Act 1960 and Arms (Restricted Firearms and Other Weapons) Regulations 2019. Their possession, sale, or use risks imprisonment up to 10 years or fines exceeding RM20,000 under Section 7 of the Act.

Key Regulations for Nunchucks in Malaysia

  • Prohibition under Arms Act 1960: Nunchucks fall under “offensive weapons” per Section 2, rendering them illegal without special permits.
  • Customs Control: The Royal Malaysian Customs Department enforces import bans, seizing nunchucks at entry points under the Customs Act 1967.
  • State-Level Enforcement: Local police may conduct raids targeting martial arts schools or collectors, citing public safety concerns per the Dangerous Drugs and Arms Act 2023 amendments.

Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize stricter penalties for “unauthorized possession,” aligning with the Home Ministry’s push to curb violent crime. The Malaysian Martial Arts Federation has publicly distanced itself from nunchuck training, citing legal ambiguity. Exceptions exist only for licensed historical reenactment groups, subject to Royal Malaysian Police approval.