Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

[Bandu W]

Hello,

I am again inviting the seasoned drivers to help SG drivers who are to driving in Malaysia (like me ). You are welcome to teach the ropes, as well as scare us

When I was driving in Malaysian roads, I simply assumed that traffic rules are similar to Singapore. However, I know, there would be subtle differences in some rules, which will be good to know.

For example (I assumed):
1. Turning left on red light - not allowed (although different in some countries like US)
2. Red light in passenger crossings - not allowed to pass even if there is no one to cross the road (although, I have seen other Malaysian drivers go through it)
3. Stop sign - doesn't have to stop, it means "yield"
4. Round about - same rule, car on right have the way
5. U-Turn - can take a U turn unless it is marked as "no U turn" (unlike in Singapore)
6. Turn right signal with red and green arrows - when read arrow is on, cannot turn right even if there are no incoming cars.
7. Zebra crossing with pedastrican's right of way - no such thing!!

Can someone help identify any differences that we should know?

Thanks!

 

[etan1]

Re: Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

There are rules, and then there are local rules. Do as the locals do.

The 2 places I will avoid driving are india and china.

 

[Ahbengdriver]

Re: Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

You seem to have tonnes of concerns driving to Malaysia.:laughlik: Wait till you see the traffic in some African countries then you know.

If you not sure then just drive slower and let the MY cars pass first and see what they do. What you shouldnt do is 'bully' some of the slower MY cars on the NSH. Treat them with respect because they are actually quite courteous in my opinion.

In case you dont already know, when the cars in the opposite direction flash their long beams, it could be a signal that there is a roadblock ahead.

 

[davidtch]

Re: Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

You seem to have tonnes of concerns driving to Malaysia.:laughlik: Wait till you see the traffic in some African countries then you know.

Not juz him. There r a lot of ppl who are concern & don't dare to drive out of this island.

 

[Bandu W]

Re: Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

There are rules, and then there are local rules. Do as the locals do.

Right, I did that last time. There was a traffic light which was red (but no one was there to cross), the guy in front of me went through it, but I stopped. Then, guy behind me kept honking, so, I too went through it.

I don't mind breaking the low once in a way but I would like to be aware of it. That was the reason for asking .

The 2 places I will avoid driving are india and china.

Actually, I have driven many years in Sri Lanka (similar to India). But there were two differences then: I was living there, and I was driving a 10 year old Jap car :shhhh:

In case you dont already know, when the cars in the opposite direction flash their long beams, it could be a signal that there is a roadblock ahead.

Yes, noticed it, learned it, and have done it for others too.

Not juz him. There r a lot of ppl who are concern & don't dare to drive out of this island.

Thank you !!!
Actually, my preference is to go with those conveyors organized by PML/AA but I find two issues with it - not flexible enough, and too expensive. So, although I am scared, I would still drive on my own.

 

[hondacivic]

Re: Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

maybe u want to organise a trip up to Kuantan?

 

[Bandu W]

Re: Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

maybe u want to organise a trip up to Kuantan?

Yes, Kuantan is definitely a place I want to drive to. I am heading to Port Dickson on next Monday. Next driving may be in few months later. I will keep this possibility in mind.

 

[etan1]

Re: Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

Yes, Kuantan is definitely a place I want to drive to. I am heading to Port Dickson on next Monday. Next driving may be in few months later. I will keep this possibility in mind.

PD is nice... long stretch of road after you exit NSH to vroom vroom....:woowooo:

 

[Bandu W]

Re: Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

PD is nice... long stretch of road after you exit NSH to vroom vroom....:woowooo:

Planning to go via 2nd link, NSE north and exit to E29 at Senawang area. Is that the best path (less trouble)?

If I want to come down to Melaka later on, should I take RT 5? or go up to Senawang and take NSE south? (I don't like driving through crowded places because I am afraid of intentional accidents, etc.)

Thanks

 

[Benny Cheng]

Re: Differences in traffic rules in Malaysia

It is interesting that not a lot of people know of a local site about road safety. This site (scrsc.org.sg) is very interesting with lots of content about traffic rules and road safety.