Classic Land Rover Defender associated with Cameron Highlands to get new lease of life as tourist vehicles

The ministry said the classic Land Rover Defenders were suited to Cameron Highlands’ hilly terrain and challenging routes, particularly for off-road tourism activities. — Picture from Facebook/Cameron Highlands Land Rover Owners

By Malay Mail

First Published: Friday, 30 Oct 2026 4:52 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 — Classic Land Rover Defender vehicles associated with Cameron Highlands could continue operating as tourist vehicles despite exceeding the usual 15-year age limit under a new Transport Ministry policy.

In a statement, the ministry said the vehicles could be considered for use as Cameron Highlands Iconic Tourism Vehicles (KIPCH), provided they meet specified safety requirements, technical standards and licensing conditions.

The initiative is expected to benefit more than 60 vehicles that could potentially join the service, supporting local tourism while preserving the highland destination’s distinctive identity and heritage.

The ministry said the classic Land Rover Defenders were suited to Cameron Highlands’ hilly terrain and challenging routes, particularly for off-road tourism activities.

To ensure the policy is implemented in an orderly and controlled manner, the ministry, through the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and Land Public Transport Agency (APAD), is holding engagement sessions with stakeholders, including the Pahang state government, Cameron Highlands District Council, tourism agencies and local operators.

The discussions cover implementation arrangements such as approved routes and operating areas, designated passenger pick-up and drop-off points, licensing requirements and vehicle safety standards.

The vehicles will be restricted to tourism activities at designated locations and cannot be used to provide passenger transport services without a valid licence, the ministry said.

The ministry is targeting the rollout of the KIPCH initiative in the first quarter of 2027, subject to the finalisation of implementation arrangements, licensing requirements, safety conditions and approved operating routes.