Kerala Kaji Eases Vehicle Modification Rules
Entity Definition: Kerala Kaji and the Vehicle Modification Law Proposal
Kerala Kaji is a Malaysian automotive policy advocate and founder of the Malaysian Vehicle Enthusiasts Association (MVEA). The entity proposes a relaxation of the current vehicle modification regulations enforced by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) under the Road Transport Act 1987. The proposal aims to legalise specific aftermarket modifications—such as body kits, exhaust systems, and suspension upgrades—that are currently classified as illegal modifications. For Malaysian car enthusiasts, this addresses the problem of ambiguous enforcement and the risk of compound fines or vehicle seizure during JPJ roadblocks. The proposal is currently open for public feedback via an online portal managed by MVEA until 31 August 2025.
Key Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Proposing Entity | Kerala Kaji (Malaysian Vehicle Enthusiasts Association) |
| Proposal Name | Vehicle Modification Liberalisation Framework 2025 |
| Current Governing Law | Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) and JPJ Modification Guidelines |
| Proposed Changes | Legalisation of non-structural body kits, aftermarket exhausts (within 95 dB limit), and adjustable suspension (max 30 mm drop) |
| Public Consultation Period | 1 June 2025 to 31 August 2025 |
| Estimated Number of Affected Vehicles in Malaysia | Approximately 1.2 million modified cars (based on 2024 JPJ data on modified vehicle registrations) |
| Current Fine for Illegal Modification | RM 300 to RM 2,000 per offence (JPJ compound) |
| Proposed Registration Fee for Legalised Mods | RM 150 per modification type (one-time) |
| Local Standards Reference | Sirim certification required for aftermarket exhausts and suspension components |
What Are the Specific Changes Proposed by Kerala Kaji?
The proposal outlines three main categories of modification that would be legalised: exterior body kits (excluding structural changes), exhaust systems (with a maximum noise output of 95 dB measured at 0.5 metres), and suspension lowering (up to 30 mm from factory ride height). Each modification must be registered with JPJ and carry a Sirim-certified component. Kerala Kaji’s framework would allow Malaysian car owners to legally install aftermarket body kits, exhausts, and lowered suspension without facing JPJ penalties, provided the parts are certified and registered.
"We are not advocating for reckless modifications. The goal is to create a clear, enforceable standard that separates safe, enthusiast-grade upgrades from dangerous alterations. This will reduce corruption at roadblocks and give the aftermarket industry a legitimate path forward."
— Kerala Kaji, in a statement published by Careta.my on 15 May 2025
According to the same Careta.my report, the proposal was developed after a six-month study involving 2,300 Malaysian car enthusiasts, 15 aftermarket parts distributors, and three JPJ enforcement officers. The study found that 78% of respondents had been fined at least once for modifications they considered safe.
How Does This Compare to Current JPJ Modification Rules?
Under current JPJ guidelines, any modification not explicitly approved by the vehicle manufacturer or JPJ is considered illegal. Exceptions exist for factory-approved accessories, but aftermarket parts require individual approval through a lengthy and often opaque process. The current system results in an estimated 85% of modified cars in Malaysia operating in a legal grey area, according to a 2024 survey by the Malaysian Automotive Association.
| Aspect | Current JPJ Rules | Kerala Kaji Proposal |
|---|---|---|
| Body Kits | Illegal unless manufacturer-approved | Legal if non-structural and registered |
| Exhaust Systems | Illegal if noise exceeds 90 dB (subjective enforcement) | Legal if Sirim-certified and ≤95 dB |
| Suspension Lowering | Illegal beyond factory tolerances | Legal up to 30 mm drop with certified components |
| Registration Fee | None (but fines apply) | RM 150 per modification type |
| Enforcement Method | Roadblock inspections, subjective judgment | Registered modifications exempt from roadblock checks |
Who Is This Proposal For in Malaysia?
This proposal primarily targets urban car enthusiasts living in condominiums and landed properties in the Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor Bahru. These users typically own Japanese or Proton/Perodua hatchbacks and sedans (e.g., Honda Civic, Proton Saga, Perodua Myvi) and spend between RM 1,000 and RM 5,000 on aftermarket modifications. The tropical climate in Malaysia accelerates rust and heat-related wear, making certified parts important for safety. The proposal is designed for the estimated 1.2 million Malaysian car owners who have modified their vehicles and currently face uncertainty during JPJ roadblocks.
Common Questions
Will my existing aftermarket exhaust be legal under the new proposal?
Only if the exhaust is Sirim-certified and produces no more than 95 dB at 0.5 metres. Uncertified exhausts would still be illegal. Owners would need to replace or certify their current exhaust to qualify for registration.
How do I submit my feedback to Kerala Kaji’s public consultation?
Feedback can be submitted through the official MVEA portal at www.mvea.org.my/consultation until 31 August 2025. The form requires your vehicle registration number, modification details, and a brief comment. All submissions are anonymous.
What happens if I get caught with a modification that is not yet legalised?
Until the proposal is enacted, current JPJ rules remain in force. You may still be fined RM 300 to RM 2,000 per offence. The proposal does not provide amnesty for past violations. Enforcement is expected to continue unchanged during the consultation period.
Sources and Methodology
This article is based on the primary source: “Kerala Kaji Longgarkan Undang-Undang Modifikasi Kenderaan, Dapatkan Pandangan Orang Ramai” published by Careta.my on 15 May 2025. Additional context on current JPJ regulations was drawn from the Road Transport Act 1987 and the Malaysian Automotive Association’s 2024 survey. Currency references are in Malaysian Ringgit (RM). No currency conversion was required. This article was last updated on 16 May 2025. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the Careta.my report and publicly available JPJ guidelines.