From Jaywalking to Singing in Public, Here Are 6 Lesser-Known M'sian Laws You Might Be Breaking Without Realising

Think you know all the laws you have to follow in Malaysia? Think again. While most of us are familiar with obvious offences such as speeding or running a red light, there are also plenty of lesser-known laws that many Malaysians may be unaware of.

Here are some Malaysian laws you might not know exist:

1. Naming your baby with a name from a restricted category

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Some parents want their children to have unique and memorable names, which is why many try to think outside the box when naming their little ones. However, Malaysia has certain rules when it comes to registering baby names.

According to Section 16 of the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1957, the Registrar has the authority to reject a name that does not comply with the National Registration Department's guidelines.

Under these guidelines, parents in Malaysia are not allowed to give their children names that fall under certain restricted categories, including colours, animals, fruits, vegetables, natural elements, numbers, food items and adjectives.

2. Not updating your MyKad address after moving

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Under Regulation 15 of the National Registration Regulations 1990, Malaysians who move to a new residence for 90 days or longer are legally required to update the address on their MyKad.

This requirement applies even if you intend to move back to your previous address in the future, provided you have been residing at the new address for at least 90 days.

Failure to comply may result in a fine of up to RM20,000, imprisonment of up to three years, or both under Regulation 25 of the same regulations.

3. Jaywalking

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Admit it, most of us have jaywalked at least once in our lives. While it may seem common, it is actually an offence that could land you with a fine of up to RM500.

Under Section 45 of the Road Transport Act 1987, crossing a road without using a designated pedestrian crossing, such as a zebra crossing or pedestrian bridge where available, may result in a fine ranging from RM30 to RM500.

4. You can't keep chickens as pets in certain residential areas

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Think chickens are cute and want to keep them as pets? Not so fast.

Under local council by-laws and planning regulations, keeping poultry in residential housing areas may not be permitted due to health, sanitation and nuisance concerns.

If the chickens become a nuisance through excessive noise, odours or poor maintenance, their owner may face enforcement action, including fines and the removal of the animals.

(I'd fact-check this point further. "You cannot keep chickens as pets" is too absolute and may not be true nationwide.)

5. You can be fined if your dog chases someone

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Yes, you read that right. If your pet dog chases another person, you could be held legally responsible.

Under the Minor Offences Act 1955 (Act 336), dog owners may be fined if their dog is found chasing, attacking or otherwise causing a nuisance to members of the public.

6. Singing obscene songs in public

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According to Section 294 of the Penal Code (Act 574), anyone who sings, recites or utters obscene songs, words or expressions in a public place to the annoyance of others may face punishment.

Offenders may be fined, imprisoned for up to three months, or both.

Featured Image Credit: Malay Mail, Hobby Farm