Not a ‘fast lane’: Miros tells Malaysian motorists to keep left, overtake right

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 1 — The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) has issued a clear rule about highway lanes: keep left and move right to overtake, then return left when it is safe. Director Rizati Hamidun explained that the left lane is for normal driving and slower-moving vehicles, while the middle lane is for those who need to overtake slower traffic.

The right-most lane is strictly for overtaking and should not be used as a constant cruising lane. Vehicles should stay in their assigned lane to maintain traffic flow and avoid congestion. Motorists should give overtaken vehicles sufficient clearance and only move back to the left when it is safe. Briefly flashing headlights can signal an intention to overtake but should not be used aggressively.

The right indicator should only be used when changing lanes, not to request another vehicle to move. Overtaking should not be done on the left; instead, motorists should maintain a safe distance and wait for a lawful opportunity. Rule 4 of the Road Traffic Rules 1959 mandates slower vehicles to stay near the left lane and avoid obstructing faster traffic.

Rule 4A prohibits goods and public service vehicles from using the extreme right lane continuously, except for overtaking. Repeatedly using the right lane without overtaking is considered an offence, contributing to congestion and hindering traffic flow.