If you have a little one, you already know how important it is to keep them safe-especially in the car. A car seat isn't just some extra gear; it's a lifesaver! As part of our effort to promote safety when driving with your child, we want to help you understand why having a car seat is essential for your baby's safety on the road.

Why Car Seats Matter (And the Law Agrees!)

Accidents can happen when you least expect them, and that's why a good car seat is so crucial. Did you know that a properly installed car seat can reduce the risk of fatal injury by up to 71% for infants? In Malaysia, it's not just a suggestion-it's the law!

In Malaysia, the Child Restraint System (CRS) regulation has been gazetted by Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) under the Road Transport Act 1978 - Motor Vehicles (Safety Seat-belts) (Amendmend) Rules 2019. On 1 January 2020, the law was implemented for all private vehicles.

Here are some key facts you should know about car seat laws in Malaysia:

1. Only the Best Will Do: Make sure your car seat is certified under United Nations Regulations UN R44 or UN R129. Check for those stickers on the back or bottom of the seat to be sure you're using certified one.

   

2. Who Needs a Car Seat?: If your child is a newborn up to 12 years old, height of less than 136cm, and weighs 36kg or less, they need to be in a proper car seat when you're driving around in private cars.

3. Installation Matters: Car seats must be installed using the vehicle's 3-point seat belt or the ISOFIX system. Forget about using just the 2-point or lap belt-that's a no-go!

   

4. Airbag Alert: If you're using a rear-facing car seat, don't put it in the front passenger seat if there's an active airbag. That could be dangerous and potentially fatal if the airbag deploys! Besides, only children between the ages of 4 to 7, weigh 15 to 25kg and height of 100cm and above should be placed in a car seat in the front passenger seat.

Make Sure It's Installed Right

Even the best car seat won't do much good if it's not installed properly. About 60% of car seats are installed incorrectly, which can really decrease the effectiveness. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions or ask for help if you're unsure!

We want to make sure you have all the info you need to keep your family safe on the road. We're dedicated to sharing tips and advice on car safety, so you can drive with confidence knowing your little one is secure.

Source of information

Other good reads that you might be interested in:

• Benefits of Maintaining Your Vehicle's Health
• Why Malaysians Love Their Dummy Seatbelts (and Why It's a Terrible Idea)
• What To Do When Involved In An Accident?
• Extend Your Tyres' Lifespan And Drive Safely
• Do Not Drive Another Inch! Ignoring These 3 Dashboard Lights Could Be Fatal!
• A Lady Mechanic?!
• Unforeseen Perils and Why Many Malaysians Face Insurance Woes After Natural Disasters.
• Clearing the Window: Understanding JPJ Requirements for Tinted Glass in Malaysian Cars
• The Thrifty Driver's Choice: Pay-Per-Mile Car Insurance
• Alamak, Hujan Lagi!