Not true you will be jailed for tinted windows, says Loke

PARLIAMENT | The Transport Ministry has denied reports that vehicle owners using tinted mirrors in violation of the rules will be imprisoned.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke (Harapan-Seremban) said there is no record of any vehicle owner who committed a violation being brought to court, let alone serving prison time, for such an offence.

He said the “wrong message” was conveyed to the public regarding the matter.

“It’s not right to be jailed for using tinted glass. If you make a mistake (using tinted glasses) you will be charged a compound fine (and) the compound is not much,” he added.

Loke was speaking in the Dewan Rakyat during the closing session of the debate on the Supply Bill 2024.

Last month, the media reported that vehicle owner who fails to comply with the window tinting regulations can be fined not more than RM2,000 or imprisoned for a period not exceeding six months.

In the case of a second or subsequent conviction, they can be fined not more than RM4,000 or imprisoned for a period not exceeding 12 months, or both.

The public reaction was that such a sentence was excessive.

Yayasan Keprihatinan Komuniti Malaysia chairperson Halim Ishak said his group received many complaints and objections regarding the issue.

He advised the Transport Ministry to review the implementation of penalties for the installation of tinted windows.

Loke said the government has given flexibility to vehicle owners to use tinted glass.

Need to apply for fully tinted

The regulations on the use of tinted windows are set out in the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Certain Types of Glass) Rules 1991 (Amendment 2019).

It allows for a percentage of permissible visible light transmission (VLT) of 70 percent for the front windscreen, 50 percent for front side windows, and 30 percent for rear side windows and the rear screen.

Loke said it is possible to use fully tinted glass for safety reasons, but reminded that an application must be submitted and checks will be done first before approval is granted.

“VIPs such as ministers are allowed to use fully darkened windows. Any party who feels there is a security issue can also apply.

“Rich people who have security issues such as the fear of being kidnapped (can apply),” he said, adding that the application will involve payment of RM5,000 for two years.

He also said the application will be screened by the Road Transport Department and the police first before permission is granted.

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