Malaysia retains e-scooter road ban as trials inform future rules
Seven pilot areas are testing micromobility use, but no timetable has been set for allowing it on residential or village roads.
Malaysia’s ban on micromobility vehicles using public roads remains in force while controlled trials gather evidence for a comprehensive regulatory framework, the Transport Ministry told Parliament on November 3. The restrictions cover devices including e-scooters.
Answering Kampar MP Chong Zhemin’s question about possible use in villages and housing estates, the ministry said such devices could help connect passengers to transport services over short distances. However, any use would need controls reflecting traffic speeds, road conditions, infrastructure suitability and rider safety. It gave no firm date for permitting them on those roads.
The Road Traffic Rules (Prohibition of Use of Certain Micromobility Vehicles) 2021 prohibit mopeds, Personal Mobility Devices and Personal Mobility Aids on public roads nationwide. The Transport Minister can authorise exemptions for specific trial locations through the Micromobility Sandbox programme.
Seven pilot areas cover jurisdictions overseen by the city councils of Shah Alam, Subang Jaya and Penang, as well as Kuala Lumpur City Hall, and campuses at Universiti Malaya, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS and UiTM Perak. The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research has prepared guidance on infrastructure, rider protection, vehicle condition and operators’ duties.
Trial findings will help shape vehicle categories, technical safety requirements, approved routes and enforcement arrangements. The ministry favours lanes physically separated from motor traffic, though shared routes could be considered where space is limited if councils introduce traffic-calming measures and strict speed controls. PLANMalaysia has also distributed route-planning guidance to state and local authorities.
