Hi
Came across this topic. Just wanted to update, recently I was in Malaysia and usually, I've never had any issues with my driving license issued from the Netherlands. However, this time when I rented from Avis, I was asked for an International Driving Permit - there was also a siganage at the desk that this was from Feb 2025 onwards.
The only exception was for driving licenses from ASEAN and the Commonwealth countries. I was taken by surprise of this "new" rule - as I also understood previously if the license is not in Latin, and IDP is compulsory but if it's in Latin and includes English, it's only recommended.

After some discussion - I was allowed to pick up my car, BUT i was informed I will have zero insurance, incuding any basic one. I just accepted it as it was a quick 2 day rental.
Enquiring further I was informed this was a requirement from the authorities - which is fine, but why such bias exceptions - as I can't imagine someone having a license from "questionable" Commonwealth country allowed easily and one from the European Union not.

I am wondering if there is anyone here with additional details on this. I could not find additional information.

Cheers!