The Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke clarified on June 19 that motorists will not face enforcement action for removable sunshades on vehicle windows unless the shades obstruct driver visibility and affect safety while driving [1, 2]. He emphasized that the Road Transport Department (JPJ/RTD) prioritizes more serious offences such as illegal racing, drunk driving, and reckless driving over removable sunshade violations. "There are many road offences, but there are more critical safety-related matters that are JPJ’s priority," Loke said. "Action will only be taken if the accessory is found to obstruct the driver's vision and can affect safety while driving." [1, 2]
JPJ has not issued any summonses so far against motorists for installing removable sunshades, according to official sources [1, 2]. The department controls vehicle window modifications to ensure driver visibility and road safety, regulating window tint levels and prohibiting removable obstructions that could create blind spots [3, 1]. The Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Certain Types of Glass) Rules 1991 state that the use of removable sunshades, curtains, or other window coverings on vehicle windows while driving can be an offence, which carries a fine up to RM300 [3, 2, 1].
Existing regulations permit darker tinted films on rear and rear side windows as long as they meet approved Visible Light Transmission (VLT) levels [3, 1]. Transport officials clarified that no special operations targeting sunshades have been ordered by the Ministry of Transport [2].
Despite this, public confusion remains regarding the enforcement and interpretation of the rules. Some motorists have sought clearer guidance on what exactly constitutes obstructing the driver’s view [3, 4]. The RTD had reminded drivers earlier in June that removable sunshades and curtains may constitute offences under the 1991 rules [3, 4].
The government’s focus remains on serious road safety violations, with enforcement on sunshade usage only if safety is compromised. JPJ will continue monitoring the situation, and motorists are advised to ensure any window coverings do not block the driver's vision while driving.
