Vehicles emitting exhaust fumes beyond legal limits may soon face compounds higher than RM2,000, said Department of Environment (DoE) director-general Datuk Wan Abdul Latiff Wan Jaffar.
He explained that although compounds are currently capped at RM2,000, amendments gazetted on June 6, 2024 — and enforced on July 7 — now allow much higher penalties.
Under the revised Clean Air Regulations, cases brought to court can attract fines of up to RM1 million, with compounds set at half the maximum court fine, or RM500,000.
“For now, during this transition period, we’re still imposing RM2,000 compounds. But these amounts will be increased in the future,” he said.
Wan Abdul Latiff spoke after launching the National Motor Vehicle Operation Week in conjunction with the 2025 World Ozone Day celebration at MBKS Community Hall.
He stressed the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and responsible driving, warning that abrupt acceleration or poor upkeep can worsen emissions.
The DoE operation will involve nationwide checks on diesel and petrol vehicles, as well as motorcycles, using specialised equipment to measure emissions and noise levels.
Diesel vehicles emitting black smoke, petrol cars exceeding gas limits, and noisy motorcycles will face enforcement action.
Wan Abdul Latiff said the campaign aims to raise awareness among the country’s 33 million vehicle owners, noting that poor vehicle maintenance remains a major contributor to urban air pollution.
He urged Malaysians to adopt environmental awareness as part of everyday life, calling it a “culture of life”.
