Importing a Car into Malaysia

Importing a personal vehicle into Malaysia is possible, but for most expatriates, it is more complicated and expensive than purchasing a car locally.

An Approved Permit, commonly called an AP, is normally required before a vehicle can be imported. Eligibility and conditions vary depending on the applicant’s immigration status and the vehicle in question. An AP is an import licence and does not automatically mean that the vehicle will be exempt from Malaysian taxes.

The total cost may include international shipping, marine insurance, port and agent fees, import duty, excise duty, sales tax and local registration expenses. The Customs Department

may also assess the vehicle using its own valuation rather than simply accepting the price originally paid overseas.

After arrival, a new or used imported vehicle must undergo a mandatory special inspection before it can be registered with the Road Transport Department, or JPJ. Differences in Malaysian safety specifications, lighting, emissions, window tinting, and spare parts availability can create additional difficulties.

MITI’s published expatriate guideline also states that a personally imported vehicle must be registered in the applicant’s name, cannot be sold or transferred and must be re-exported when the expatriate’s Malaysian employment ends. Applicants should confirm that these conditions still apply to their particular pass before arranging shipment.

Unless the car is rare, has strong sentimental value or qualifies for a substantial exemption, buying a new or used vehicle already registered in Malaysia is usually cheaper, quicker and considerably easier.