What happens if summons still not paid after January 2026?
You’ve seen the news, heard the rumors, and perhaps even ignored a few SMS notifications.
But as the calendar turns to January 2026, the "wait and see" strategy for traffic summonses (samans) in Malaysia has officially hit a dead end.
For decades, many Malaysian motorists relied on seasonal "mega-discounts" of 50% to 80% during Merdeka or festive seasons to clear their backlog. However, the Ministry of Transport and PDRM have officially ended this era. If you still have outstanding samans after January 2026, you aren't just looking at a higher bill—you are looking at a complete block on your ability to drive legally.
The New Reality: "The Faster You Pay, The Less You Pay"
Starting 1 January 2026, Malaysia has implemented a permanent, unified tiered system for both PDRM and JPJ summonses. This replaces the old ad-hoc discount campaigns with a standardized structure designed to reward prompt payment and penalize delay.
The 2026 Tiered Payment Structure
If you receive a summons in 2026, the amount you pay depends entirely on your speed of action:
| Payment Window | Discount rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 1-15 days | 50% Discount | Early bird reward |
| 16 - 30 days | 33% Discount | standard settlement |
| 31 - 60 days | 0% ( Full Amount ) | final warning period |
| after 61 days | No discount + Action | Blacklisting & court actions |
5 Major Consequences of Unpaid Samans After January 2026
If you are holding onto old summonses from 2025 or earlier, or if you ignore new ones issued after the January 1st deadline, here is exactly what will happen.
1. Immediate JPJ Blacklisting
The most immediate impact is being placed on the JPJ Blacklist. In 2026, the digital integration between PDRM’s MyBayar and JPJ’s MySikap is seamless. Once you hit the 61-day mark without payment, the system automatically flags your NRIC and vehicle registration.
2. Inability to Renew Road Tax and Driving License
This is where the "pain point" becomes a reality. If you are blacklisted, the JPJ system will block any attempt to renew your Motor Vehicle Licence (LKM) or your Competent Driving Licence (CDL).
Driving without Road Tax: You risk having your vehicle impounded.
Driving without a License: This is a non-compoundable offense that leads directly to court.
3. Compulsory Court Appearances
For summonses that remain unpaid for over 60 days, authorities are no longer just sending reminders. Cases are being referred to the traffic courts. If you fail to show up for your court date, a Warrant of Arrest will be issued. Being "busy with work" is no longer a valid legal excuse in the eyes of the Malaysian magistrate.
4. Integration with the KEJARA Demerit System
The revamped KEJARA system is now fully operational. Previously, demerit points were often only recorded after a fine was paid. In the 2026 framework, demerit points can be logged upon the expiration of the summons period. Accumulating points leads to:
Official warnings.
Suspension of your driving license.
Revocation of your license for habitual offenders.
5. Problems with Vehicle Ownership Transfer (Selling Your Car)
Planning to trade in your Perodua Myvi for a newer Proton S70? If you have unpaid samans, the transfer of ownership (JPJ K3) cannot be processed. The "AutoConcierge" services used by many dealers will flag these debts immediately, forcing you to pay the full, non-discounted amount (plus potential late fees) before the sale can proceed.
Why the "Amnesty Period" of Late 2025 Was Your Last Chance
In the final months of 2025 (November 1 to December 30), the government offered a final "exit ramp"—a 50% to 70% discount to clear the RM6.6 billion in outstanding fines.
If you missed this window: All those old samans have now reverted to their full original amount (typically RM300 for major offenses). There are no more "70% off" pop-up booths at police stations or shopping malls. The price you see now is the price you must pay.
How to Check Your Summons Status in 2026
Don't wait until you are stopped at a roadblock or trying to renew your insurance. You can check your status through these official channels:
MyJPJ App: The all-in-one portal for your digital license and road tax.
MyBayar PDRM: Specifically for police traffic offenses.
MySIKAP Portal: For detailed JPJ records and blacklisting status.
Expert FAQ: Solving Your Summons Doubts
1. Can I still get a discount if I pay my old 2024 samans now?
No. The special amnesty period ended on December 30, 2025. Any summons issued before 2026 that remains unpaid is now due in full. The new tiered discount only applies to new summonses issued from January 1, 2026, onwards.
2. Will unpaid samans affect my car insurance premium?
While samans don't directly change your NCD (No Claims Discount), they prevent you from renewing your road tax. Most insurance providers require a valid road tax for certain claims to be processed smoothly. Furthermore, a history of heavy demerit points under the KEJARA system may eventually influence risk-based insurance pricing.
3.I’ve been blacklisted. How long does it take to clear my name after paying?
Once payment is made via MyJPJ or MyBayar, the system usually updates within 24 to 48 hours. However, if your case was already referred to the court, you may need to present your payment receipt to the JPJ enforcement division to manually lift the restriction.
4.Can I pay my samans in installments?
In 2026, the government has moved away from installment plans for standard traffic compounds to encourage total compliance. It is best to settle the amount in full to avoid immediate blacklisting.
Start 2026 With a Clean Slate via Motorist Malaysia
Dealing with the aftermath of unpaid samans can be a logistical nightmare, especially if you’ve been blacklisted and are trying to manage your vehicle's future. Whether you are looking to clear your record or simply want to move on from a vehicle burdened by administrative hurdles, Motorist Malaysia is here to help.
If the new 2026 regulations have made you realize it’s time for a fresh start with a new car, we offer the most seamless way to sell your current vehicle:
Free Car Valuation in 24 Hours: Get an accurate, transparent price for your car without the guesswork.
2,100+ Certified Partners: Our massive network ensures you get the highest possible offer in the Malaysian market.
Zero Paperwork Stress: We handle all the tedious JPJ and Puspakom documentation for you.
Hassle-Free "AutoConcierge": From valuation to final payment, our team guides you through every step, ensuring a 100% stress-free experience.
Don't let unpaid samans and blacklisting devalue your asset or complicate your life. Take control of your automotive journey today.
Ready to see what your car is worth? Visit www.motorist.my or download the Motorist Super App on the App Store or Google Play to get your free valuation now!
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