Govt Rolls Out RV Park Trials Ahead of 2026 Rental Framework

Following the recent announcement by the Ministry of Transport (MOT) that Malaysians will be able to legally rent and drive RVs from Jan 1 2026, the government is now moving to expand supporting infrastructure nationwide.

Deputy Housing and Local Government (KPKT) Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu said several proof-of-concept RV parks are being tested to refine newly approved planning guidelines, as interest in RV travel continues to grow.

The Cabinet-endorsed guidelines, approved in Oct 2024, provide a unified reference for developers, operators and local authorities, covering planning requirements, operational standards and essential facilities.

Two pilot parks have already opened at Pantai Hiburan in Rompin and Pantai Bagan Lalang in Sepang. Three more sites are next: Pantai Cahaya in Port Dickson, Taman Tasik Seremban in Negeri Sembilan and Pantai Teluk Marina in Kemaman, Terengganu.

Aiman Athirah said the ministry has worked with the Malaysian Camper Van and Motorhome Association to ensure the guidelines meet user needs, including suitable plot sizes and safety features. Site selection focused on accessibility and risk levels.

She added that expanding RV tourism will require cooperation beyond KPKT, involving ministries such as the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry as Malaysia clearly positioning itself for a more structured and RV-friendly landscape for tourism.