The Government has announced revisions to the current vehicle coloring guidelines, last revised in February 2016, when updated regulations submitted under the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Certain Types of Glass) (Amendment) Rules 2016 replaced the previous 1991 rules. Currently, current regulations specify a minimum visible light transmittance (VLT) percentage of 70% for the front windshield, 50% for the front side windows, and 30% for the rear window and rear windshield.
According to the Ministry of Transport, the rear window and rear windshield have now been revised, and the new regulations allow the VLT percentage to be reduced to below 30%, provided the vehicle has two side mirrors (such as left and right) attached
There is no baseline percentage defined, which means the vehicle’s rear window and rear windshield can theoretically be dimmed to 0% VLT (making it a panel vehicle. Panel SUVs and sedans, anyone?). The statutory VLT percentage for the front windshield remains unchanged at 70%, and the percentages for the front driver and passenger side windows remain unchanged at 50%.
The ministry added that the new rules only apply to private vehicles and will also cover vehicles used for ride-hailing. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said although a ride-hailing driver required a public service license (PSV), the car he or she used to be still classified as a private car. However, the allowable VLT level for windows and screens of motor vehicles registered and used for public transport and cargo will continue to be set at not less than 70%.
Motorists who wish to completely darken their vehicle will be able to lower the VLT level on the front windshield and front driver/passenger side windows, but will require a special application, which will involve costs. The ministry said in a statement that anyone can apply to have a vehicle’s front windshield and front side windows darkened (by using darker privacy glass or window film) for specific reasons such as safety or health reasons.
For applications based on safety/security purposes, a service fee of RM50 will be charged per application submitted. If approved, the successful applicant will have to pay RM5,000 to legally darken his/her vehicle’s front windscreen and front side windows below the permitted levels of 70% and 50%. Each license granted is valid for two years, meaning those granted access to darker front windows and windshields will need to reapply when that use expires. They will need to pay again for another two years, and so on.
As previously reported, owners who require the use of vehicles in complete darkness due to medical conditions will be exempt, but applications for exemptions based on such grounds require written confirmation from a government doctor. The ministry said the amendments aim to provide all motorists with the convenience of darker rear windows and cooler vehicles but will also help boost government revenue. According to Loke, the government expects toll revenue of around RM6 million a year.
The new window tint rules will go into effect on May 8, 2019. The ministry said any application for exclusion can be filed from the date the amendment comes into force. Enforcement of these new rules will begin within three months from the date the rules take effect.
