Illegal taxi touts have become a norm in Malaysian airports, with many Malaysians and even tourist have fallen victim to these. However, the government has recently brought a new law amendment in the form of Act A1766, which updates the Commercial Vehicles Licensing Board Act 1987, officially making touting at airports a criminal offence paired with heavy penalties.
Coming into effect yesterday on 9 July 2025, the amendment introduces a brand-new section, 41A(1), which clearly states that anyone who – without proper authority – solicits or touts for hire-and-reward passenger services at public places such as airports (or nearby areas) is committing a punishable offence. Those caught can face a fine of up to RM50,000, a jail term of up to five years, or both.
Once detained, the individual must be taken immediately to the nearest police station and then brought before a Magistrate. As for the scope of enforcement, the law covers all areas of an airport that are open to the general public – this includes arrival halls, drop-off points, terminal entrances, surrounding roads, and official taxi stands, among others.
The government hopes this amendment will put a firm stop to aggressive touting, an issue that has long plagued travellers arriving at Malaysian airports. By giving authorities stronger powers and introducing stricter penalties, the aim is to create a safer, more comfortable experience for both domestic and international passengers.
(Source: Commercial Vehicles Act)
