Malaysia is a resource-rich developing country and a major commodity exporter. She has had until recently a fast-growing economy, although she has been affected by the latest world recession. Transport is seen as vital to economic and social developments and national security, but receives little subsidy. This paper reviews the nature of Malaysian transport, its roles in the movement of people and goods, the structure of transport administration and financing systems, the travel characteristics and problems of the main cities, and some recent and future transport developments.

Transport administration is cumbersome. The Government funds most major investments. Air transport is developing and important to national integration. Inland and coastal shipping have declined, but international shipping is increasing. Rail transport plays a minor but important role. On the other hand, road transport is most important. Car ownership by Western standards is low, but increasing fast. Motorcycles and bicycles are important modes. The city transport problems and needs are growing. Malaysian cities have few types of paratransit services.