The next time you get into the car with the family in Malaysia, ensure that those in the back buckle up too. 

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is about to enforce the mandatory use of seat belts for all drivers and passengers in private vehicles nationwide. 

Although its current priority is to carry out advocacy programmes on seat belt usage – especially through the Klik Sebelum Gerak (click before moving) campaign – enforcement will start soon, said its director-general Aedy Fadly Ramli.

He would not disclose the exact date for the start of enforcement. 

The campaign, launched on last week, aims to enhance road safety culture and highlight the necessity of seat belt use for all vehicle occupants, not just drivers. 

“We will announce the enforcement of seat belt use for passengers of private cars soon. For now, we are beginning with this campaign first,”

Those who fail to wear seat belts may face fines of up to RM300 (S$90).