The transport ministry has said that RVs can be licensed and regulated for commercial use in Malaysia from Jan 1.
The minister, Loke Siew Fook, said the move is aimed at developing Malaysia’s RV-based tourism industry, which has been growing steadily.
Under the new policy, he said, RVs will be allowed as self-drive tourist hire vehicles in Peninsular Malaysia, and self-drive hire cars in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.
However, the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta), and Your Inbound Matters cautioned that the lack of clear guidelines could see the RV push stall even before it takes off.
Matta president Nigel Wong said Malaysia’s landscape poses both vehicle and safety challenges to RVs, which should be addressed under any future RV policy.
He said there should be clearer guidelines on which routes are suitable for such vehicles.
“Practical restrictions are needed. Driving RVs within the city could worsen traffic. They must also be barred from steep terrains such as Genting Highlands,” he told FMT.
“RVs should not be allowed to park by the roadside as that creates accident risks.”
He called for dedicated RV parks which are well-lit, especially around the perimeters, to ensure camper safety.
Your Inbound Matters founder Uzaidi Udanis said it is necessary to draw up overnight regulations, such as empowering local councils to designate rest and recreation areas for RVs. This should be supported by published maps and no-overnight signposts to avoid confusion.
“We need a proper framework for RVs, with rest bays every 150km to 200km along highways, plus clear signage and dump points integrated into parks and selected R&Rs,” he told FMT.
Both Wong and Uzaidi said the transport and tourism ministries should set vehicle standards and enforce driver checks to safeguard renters.
Wong said the ministries must define minimum specs for RVs, not only to fit tourism needs, but also to ensure driver and passenger safety.
Vehicle dimensions, chassis build, engine specs, and braking systems all need clear standards, especially since RVs are larger than regular cars, he said.
Uzaidi said every RV must clear basic safety checks – on brakes, tyres, cooking gas, and electrics – and be fitted with alarms, extinguishers, seatbelts, and secure waste tanks.
Apart from ensuring that operators are verified and possess proper insurance and licences, he said, drivers must be informed about safety and waste management standards.