Traffic fines are often an unwelcome burden that many people tend to delay paying or, in some cases, completely forget about. This habit has led to the accumulation of millions of unpaid fines over several decades, resulting in a significant amount of outstanding payments, as revealed by a senior police official.

RM4 Billion in Unpaid Traffic Fines Since 1990

According to a report by Utusan, Datuk Sri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, the director of the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department, disclosed a staggering figure regarding the total amount of unpaid traffic fines spanning decades.

He revealed that 40,962,240 traffic fines issued between 1990 and June of this year remain unpaid, amounting to a massive RM4 billion. Among these, 51,128 fines, valued at approximately RM5.1 million, were issued to foreigners from neighboring countries like Singapore, Brunei, and Thailand.

Singaporeans were identified as the top offenders, with 35,011 fines totaling an estimated RM3.5 million still unpaid.

For those who fail to settle their fines, the department issues notifications, and if the fines remain unpaid, individuals may be blacklisted by the Road Transport Department (JPJ).

“There are six offenses under the blacklist, including running red lights, driving in emergency lanes, overtaking on double lines, using communication devices while driving, queue jumping, and speeding,” said Mohd Yusri.

Online Payment Option

Mohd Yusri also noted that traffic offenders can conveniently pay their fines online via MyBayar, avoiding the need to visit a police station.

“If the offender is a foreigner, police will intensify efforts to address unpaid fines when they enter or leave the country.

“While discounts for overdue fines are offered selectively and based on agency requests, a 50% discount is automatically applied within a month, as stated on the fine notice,” he added.

He also mentioned that these promotions have helped police recover hundreds of millions of Ringgit in unpaid fines.