Licensing of Recreational Vehicles for Commercial Use to Begin Jan 1, 2026 : Loke
KAJANG, Sept 23 (VoM): The licensing and regulation of recreational vehicles (RVs) for commercial purposes will officially take effect on January 1, 2026, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced today.
The policy covers RVs used as Hire and Drive Tourism Vehicles (KSPP) in Peninsular Malaysia and Hire and Drive Cars (KSP) in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan.
Loke said the new framework applies only to newly registered RVs, whether locally assembled (CKD) or fully imported (CBU).
“Commercial use of RVs will only be allowed for new vehicles from January 1, 2026. Existing RVs already registered will not be permitted for commercial purposes,” he said at a press conference after the groundbreaking ceremony of the new Kajang Road Transport Department (JPJ) office.
However, privately owned RVs registered before December 31, 2025, may be converted for commercial use, subject to two conditions: the vehicle must be less than 15 years old and must pass a JPJ technical inspection to ensure safety compliance.
As of August 22, 2025, a total of 1,405 RVs had been registered for private use in Malaysia, most of them small to medium sized models such as caravans and campervans.
Loke said the move aims to stimulate growth in RV-based tourism and recreation, which has gained popularity among both local users and international visitors.
“This policy is aligned with efforts to develop new tourism products, especially in the ecotourism segment, which is increasingly popular with younger generations and foreign tourists,” he added.
The minister also revealed that his ministry, together with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, is exploring the feasibility of implementing a single-window system for RV commercial licensing applications across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan.
He stressed that licensing is essential to regulate operations, ensure passenger safety, and protect the interests of renters through proper enforcement and the issuance of permits.