Malaysia is a beautiful and diverse country, offering stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. The best way to fully experience its beauty is by driving in Malaysia, as it provides the flexibility to explore both popular destinations and hidden gems at your own pace. For tourists looking to drive in Malaysia, this guide offers key insights, friendly advice, and tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the road.

1. Driving Laws in Malaysia

Malaysia is a welcoming country for tourists, and driving in Malaysia is straightforward if you follow the rules.

• Left-hand driving: Like the UK and other Commonwealth nations, Malaysians drive on the left side of the road, and the steering wheel is on the right side of the car. If you're unfamiliar with this setup, don’t worry—you’ll get the hang of it in no time!
• Speed limits: Speed limits are clearly marked. On highways, you can drive up to 110 km/h, on main roads up to 90 km/h, and within city limits around 60 km/h.
• Seatbelt laws: To ensure everyone’s safety, wearing seatbelts is mandatory for both front and back seat passengers.
• Mobile phone usage: To keep roads safe, it’s illegal to use mobile phones while driving unless you use a hands-free device.

2. Licence Requirements for Tourists

Tourists with a valid international driving permit (IDP) or a driver’s licence in English can enjoy driving in Malaysia without any issues. If you're visiting from an ASEAN country, you can simply use your national licence. This means you can rent a car and explore Malaysia with ease, whether it's a quick drive to Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant markets or a scenic coastal trip in Penang.

3. Road Tax and Car Insurance—All Covered for You

When driving in Malaysia, all vehicles are required to have road tax and car insurance. Fortunately, when you rent a car from trusted companies like Hertz, both road tax and insurance are included in your rental package. You won’t have to worry about these details—just pick up the car and start exploring Malaysia’s beautiful landscapes.

4. Types of Cars Available in Malaysia

Malaysia offers a wide selection of cars, catering to every kind of traveller. You’ll find local brands like Proton and Perodua, perfect for city driving in Malaysia, as well as international brands like Toyota, Honda, and BMW for those who want a bit more luxury. If you’re planning to explore Malaysia’s mountainous regions or go off the beaten path, an SUV would be an excellent choice.

Whether you prefer a compact car for zipping around town or a larger vehicle for a family road trip, Hertz Malaysia offers a variety of well-maintained cars to suit your needs.

5. Flexible Driver Arrangements for Tourists

Driving in Malaysia can sometimes feel daunting, but Malaysia makes it easy. If you're not comfortable driving or just want to sit back and relax, many rental services, including Hertz, offer chauffeur-driven vehicles. This allows you to enjoy the journey without worrying about navigation or traffic, making it an ideal option for tourists new to Malaysian roads.

6. Types of Fuel—What You Need to Know

• RON 95 and RON 97 petrol: Malaysia offers two types of petrol: RON 95 and RON 97. However, RON 95 is subsidised for Malaysian citizens only, so tourists and foreign-registered vehicles will need to use RON 97, which is slightly higher in price but still widely available.
• EV charging: Malaysia is embracing green energy, and electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular. Tourists driving in Malaysia can easily find EV charging stations at most major shopping malls, hotels, and along highways. Simply use apps like PlugShare or ChargeEV to locate the nearest charging station. Hertz Malaysia even offers EV rentals, making it easier for eco-conscious travellers to get around.

7. Road Conditions—Enjoy a Comfortable Drive

Driving in Malaysia is generally a smooth experience, thanks to the well-maintained road network. The country’s North-South Expressway (PLUS) is the main highway running through Peninsular Malaysia, offering travelers an easy way to journey between key destinations. Even rural roads are accessible, although they can be narrower, so cautious driving is recommended when exploring more remote areas.

You’ll also find plenty of rest stops along the highways, equipped with food courts, petrol stations, and shops—perfect for taking a break during longer drives.

8. Friendly Driving Etiquette

Malaysians are known for being warm and courteous, and this extends to their driving as well.

• Flashing headlights: If someone flashes their headlights at you while driving in Malaysia, it usually means "I’m coming through" rather than "go ahead." Keep an eye out for this common signal, especially on highways.
• Using indicators: While most drivers use their indicators, you might occasionally encounter someone who doesn’t. It’s always a good idea to stay alert and give other drivers some space.
• Polite gestures: You might see drivers give a friendly wave to thank others for letting them into a lane. It’s always nice to reciprocate the courtesy!

9. Types of Roads and How Tolls Work

Malaysia has an extensive road network, including modern highways, scenic coastal roads, and rural routes. Toll highways are common, especially for long-distance travel. Here’s what you need to know:

• Touch ‘n Go card: This is the most common way to pay for tolls when driving in Malaysia. You can purchase and reload the card at petrol stations, convenience stores, or at the toll booths themselves. Tolls vary, typically ranging from RM1 to RM50 depending on the distance you travel.
• Highways: Malaysia’s highways, like the North-South Expressway, are some of the best in Southeast Asia, offering smooth, well-signposted routes.

10. Unwritten Driving Customs in Malaysia

Like any country, Malaysia has its own set of unwritten rules that make driving in Malaysia a unique experience.

• Motorcycles: Be cautious of motorcycles, especially in urban areas. They often weave between cars in traffic and can appear unexpectedly, so always check your blind spots.
• Tailgating: You might notice some drivers following closely behind you, especially on highways. It’s a common habit, but it’s still best to maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
• Stopping at zebra crossings: While it’s the law to stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings, not every driver strictly follows this rule. It’s a good idea to be extra cautious at these crossings.

Why Renting a Car from Hertz is Your Best Bet

If you're planning to explore Malaysia by car, Hertz is an excellent choice for car rentals. Here’s why:

• No worries about maintenance: Hertz offers well-maintained vehicles, so you won’t need to worry about mechanical issues while driving in Malaysia.
• Insurance included: With Hertz, comprehensive insurance is included in your rental package, giving you peace of mind throughout your journey.
• Flexible car options: Hertz offers everything from compact city cars to larger SUVs, making it easy to choose the perfect vehicle for your trip while driving in Malaysia.

Final Thoughts: Drive and Explore Malaysia with Confidence

Driving in Malaysia is a wonderful way to see everything the country has to offer. With well-maintained roads, friendly locals, and a reliable car rental service like Hertz at https://www.hertzmalaysia.com/en/, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable road trip. Just remember to follow the rules of the road, enjoy the scenic views, and take in the warm hospitality that Malaysia is known for. Safe travels!