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Police Warn Against Illegal Number Plate Flippers

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Estimated Reading Time: 6-8 minutes


Key Takeaways

  • Number plate flipper devices are strictly illegal in Malaysia, allowing users to conceal or change vehicle registration numbers instantly.
  • These devices, often imported from overseas sellers, range from RM150 to RM350 and are easily installed.
  • Using or possessing such a device can lead to severe penalties under Section 108 of the Road Transport Act 1987, including fines up to RM5,000, imprisonment up to one year, or both, along with vehicle seizure.
  • Police issue a stern warning against illegal number plate flippers. Learn why these devices are unlawful and the consequences you could face. Stay informed and avoid legal trouble. Authorities are intensifying enforcement with special operations and discussing further measures with relevant ministries.
  • Experts advocate for stricter laws to ban the import, manufacture, storage, and installation of these devices to curb their misuse in criminal activities and traffic offenses.

Table of Contents


Have you ever wondered if there's a 'quick fix' to avoid traffic cameras, or how easy it might be to obscure your vehicle's identity on the road? The rise of certain technological 'innovations' can often lead to unintended, and indeed, unlawful consequences. A new device, gaining alarming popularity on e-commerce platforms, is doing just that, sparking serious concerns among authorities. This blog post aims to shine a spotlight on these illicit gadgets. Police issue a stern warning against illegal number plate flippers. Learn why these devices are unlawful and the consequences you could face. Stay informed and avoid legal trouble. We will delve into what these devices are, how they operate, the legal ramifications of using them, and the firm stance authorities are taking against their proliferation. Understanding these details is crucial for every responsible vehicle owner in Malaysia.


What Are Number Plate Flippers and How Do They Work?

Imagine a gadget that, with the push of a button, can instantly hide or change your car's registration number. That's precisely what a 'number plate flipper' does. These devices, increasingly available online, are designed to manipulate your vehicle's identity, often with nefarious intent.

Based on demonstrations observed on e-commerce sites, there are primarily two types of these devices:

  • Motorized Flippers: The first type employs an internal motor that physically rotates the original number plate to reveal a fake one when activated. This allows for an almost seamless transition between two different registration numbers.
  • Concealment Shutters: The second type involves a blank panel or shutter that descends to completely cover the original registration number. This effectively makes your vehicle's identity invisible to cameras and observers.

These devices are typically crafted from a blend of metal and plastic, making them weather-resistant and durable. What's more concerning is their ease of installation—many can be fitted in under 10 minutes, complete with power cables, a control unit, and usage indicators. While some sellers market them as protectors against harsh weather or road conditions, a significant number of advertisements openly tout their ability to evade road enforcement cameras. This stark discrepancy highlights the clear intent behind their use: illicit concealment.


The Alarming Rise and Availability of Illegal Devices

The popularity of number plate flippers is not just a whispered rumor; it's a visible trend across various popular shopping platforms. Originating predominantly from overseas sellers, particularly from China, these devices are offered at prices ranging from an affordable RM150 to RM350. Our observations indicate that over a dozen sellers are actively promoting these tools online, making them easily accessible to anyone looking to purchase one.

This widespread availability, coupled with their ease of use, creates a dangerous environment where individuals might be tempted to circumvent traffic laws, or worse, use these devices for more serious criminal activities. The sheer volume of active sellers underscores a significant challenge for regulatory bodies trying to control their import and sale.


The Law is Clear: Why These Devices Are Illegal

Make no mistake: the law is absolutely unequivocal when it comes to vehicle registration. The use of number plate flippers directly contravenes established legislation. Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, Director of the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), has explicitly stated that vehicle owners found installing such devices will face stringent action under the Road Transport Act.

He clarified that it is an offence to display any registration number other than the one approved for a vehicle, or to display a registration number in a misleading or fake manner. This is clearly stipulated under Section 108 of the Road Transport Act 1987. The intent of the law is to ensure every vehicle on the road is identifiable and accountable, a principle that these flipper devices directly undermine. Don't fall for marketing ploys that suggest these devices offer legitimate 'protection' for your plates; their primary purpose, as highlighted by enforcement officials, is illicit concealment.


Severe Consequences You Could Face

The penalties for being caught with a number plate flipper are far from minor, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities view this offence. If convicted, offenders could face:

  • Imprisonment: Up to one year.
  • Fines: Up to RM5,000.
  • Both: A combination of imprisonment and fine.

Furthermore, the police are empowered to seize any vehicle found equipped with such a device and bring the owner to court. Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri has affirmed that "Police will intensify enforcement and launch special operations to detect any vehicles using this device." This means increased vigilance on roads, with targeted efforts to identify and apprehend individuals attempting to evade identification.

The risks far outweigh any perceived benefits. Imagine the inconvenience, the financial burden, and the legal distress if your vehicle is seized and you face court proceedings. Police issue a stern warning against illegal number plate flippers. Learn why these devices are unlawful and the consequences you could face. Stay informed and avoid legal trouble. It's a stark reminder that attempting to bypass traffic laws comes with very real, and very severe, repercussions.


A Call for Stronger Measures: What Authorities Are Doing

The issue of number plate flippers extends beyond just traffic enforcement; it touches on national security and public safety. Recognizing this, the police are not just focused on on-the-road enforcement. Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri confirmed that police are engaging in crucial discussions with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) and the Ministry of Digital regarding the online sale of these devices.

This multi-pronged approach aims to tackle the problem at its source: the supply chain. Meanwhile, criminology expert Datuk Seri A. Thaiveegan stressed the critical importance of addressing the sale of these devices. He highlighted how they severely hamper law enforcement efforts against traffic offenders and complicate the pursuit of criminals. His strong recommendation is for "appropriate amendments to be made to related laws to prohibit the import, local production, storage, and installation of this device." As the former Penang Police Chief, his insights carry significant weight, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive legal framework to completely eradicate these illicit tools from our roads and online marketplaces.


Protecting Yourself and Upholding Road Safety

As a responsible road user, your choices have an impact not just on yourself, but on the entire community. Opting for legal, ethical, and safe driving practices is paramount. The lure of a 'quick fix' to avoid enforcement might seem tempting to some, but the severe legal consequences and the ethical implications are undeniable. These devices are not merely 'modifications'; they are tools for evasion and potential criminal activity.

We encourage you to prioritize genuine road safety and adherence to laws. If you come across anyone selling or promoting these illegal number plate flippers online or offline, consider reporting them to the relevant authorities. Your vigilance can contribute significantly to safer roads for everyone. Stay informed, stay compliant, and drive responsibly. Police issue a stern warning against illegal number plate flippers. Learn why these devices are unlawful and the consequences you could face. Stay informed and avoid legal trouble. Your commitment to legal driving helps uphold the integrity of our enforcement systems and ensures a fairer, safer environment for all.


Summary of Key Information

In conclusion, the rise of illegal 'number plate flipper' devices poses a significant threat to road safety and law enforcement in Malaysia. These gadgets, easily obtained online, allow for the instant concealment or alteration of vehicle registration numbers, a clear violation of the Road Transport Act 1987. Authorities have issued a stern warning, emphasizing that severe penalties, including hefty fines, imprisonment, and vehicle seizure, await those caught using them. With intensified enforcement operations and ongoing discussions to ban their sale and import, the message is clear: these devices are illegal, dangerous, and not worth the risk. Upholding legal and ethical driving practices is not just about avoiding penalties, but about contributing to a safer, more accountable road environment for everyone.


Take Action: Drive Smart, Drive Safe!

Now that you're fully informed about the dangers and legal consequences of illegal number plate flippers, we urge you to share this vital information! Help us spread awareness by sharing this post with your friends, family, and social networks. Have you witnessed these devices in use or have further insights? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments below – let's start a conversation about road safety and accountability. And for more essential tips on safe driving practices and understanding traffic laws, be sure to explore our other articles on PanduLaju.com.my!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Q1: What exactly is a 'number plate flipper' device?

A: A 'number plate flipper' is an illegal mechanical or electronic device that allows a vehicle owner to instantly hide their original number plate or replace it with a fake one, typically at the push of a button. These devices come in types that either rotate the plate or lower a shutter to conceal it.


Q2: Is it illegal to sell or buy these devices in Malaysia?

A: While the direct sale and purchase are under scrutiny, installing and using such a device on a vehicle is definitely illegal. Authorities are actively discussing with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) and the Ministry of Digital to potentially ban the import, local production, storage, and online sale of these devices, signifying their illegal nature and intent.


Q3: What are the penalties for using a number plate flipper?

A: Under Section 108 of the Road Transport Act 1987, anyone found displaying a misleading or fake registration number faces severe penalties. This includes imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of up to RM5,000, or both. Additionally, the vehicle equipped with the device can be seized by the police.


Q4: How will authorities detect these devices?

A: The police, specifically the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), are intensifying enforcement efforts and launching special operations. This includes increased vigilance during routine checks, targeted roadblocks, and potentially leveraging surveillance technology to identify vehicles equipped with these illegal devices. They are also monitoring online sales platforms.


Q5: What should I do if I see someone using or selling such a device?

A: If you encounter someone using a number plate flipper or see these devices being sold online, it is recommended to report it to the relevant authorities, such as the police (JSPT) or the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN). Providing specific details like platform names, seller IDs, or vehicle details (if safely obtainable) can assist in their enforcement efforts.

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