Rent a Car in Malaysia - Compare Prices

Parking and Local Driving

Urban Parking:

• Shopping malls: Secure car parks in most cities
• Street parking: Usually managed by local councils using coupon or app payment systems
• Office buildings: Often have visitor spots for a fee
• Hotel parking: Generally free for guests, though some city centre hotels may charge

Car Park Systems by City:

• Kuala Lumpur: Cashless payment via DBKL-authorised mobile apps and e-wallets
• Penang: Cashless system via the council's mobile app
• Johor Bahru: Mostly electronic metres and council apps
• Kota Kinabalu: Combination of coupon and attendant systems
• Kuching: Metres and council systems in central areas

Local Driving Rules:

• Drive on the left-hand side of the road
• Speed limits: 110 km/h on expressways, 90 km/h on federal roads, 50-60 km/h in urban areas
• Seatbelts mandatory for all passengers
• No mobile phone use while driving without hands-free device
• Alcohol limit: 0.05% BAC (blood alcohol content)
• Motorcycle lanes exist on some highways. Cars must not enter these dedicated lanes.

Enforcement:

• Speed cameras common on highways (especially on downhill stretches)
• Police conduct occasional roadblocks, particularly around holidays
• Traffic violations can result in on-the-spot tickets

FAQs

Can I drive between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo (Sabah/Sarawak)? No, the sea separates these regions. You'll need to fly between them and arrange a separate car hire. Most companies don't allow you to take their cars between these areas.

How do I handle toll payments on Malaysian highways? Malaysian highways use an electronic system for tolls, so you'll need a Touch 'n Go (TnG) card or a SmartTAG device. Your rental car should include one of these. When you pick up the car, ask the company about it and check the card's balance. You can top up the card at highway rest stops, petrol stations or convenience stores. Many highways now also let you pay with RFID tags or tap your debit/credit card at the toll plazas (Open Payment System). They usually don't take cash for tolls.

Are there any restricted areas where tourists cannot drive? As a tourist, you can usually drive anywhere in Malaysia. However, you might need a permit for some very remote areas in Sabah and Sarawak. The roads in these places might also be too rough for a regular car. Always let your rental company know if you're planning to drive to remote regions.

What should I do if stopped by police? Stay polite and show the police the documents they ask for, like your licence, IDP if you need one and the car's registration papers. Police might be doing a routine check or giving you a ticket for a traffic offence. You can usually pay any fines later at a police station or online. Never pay cash directly to an officer. You should use official channels like the MyBayar Saman portal or app.

Can I take a Malaysian rental car into Thailand or Singapore? Most rental companies only let you drive their cars within Malaysia. They usually don't allow you to drive into Thailand. For Singapore, you'll need to get special permission, plus extra insurance and a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP). If the company agrees, you'll also need an Autopass card (linked to the VEP) and you'll be responsible for paying Singapore's road and toll charges. Many travellers find it easier to return the car in Johor Bahru and use public transport to cross into Singapore.