SHAH ALAM, March 20 — The Transport Ministry (MOT) is planning to amend the law to mandate those convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs to compensate victims’ families, following a fatal crash in Klang yesterday.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said that offenders may currently be punished with imprisonment of not less than 10 years and not more than 15 years, as well as a fine of RM50,000 to RM100,000 upon conviction.
For repeat offences, they face imprisonment of not less than 15 years and not more than 20 years, and a fine ranging from RM100,000 to RM150,000.
This follows an amendment to the Road Transport Act 1987, which introduced heavier penalties and came into force in October 2020.
"The MOT also urges the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to expedite a thorough investigation into the case so that the investigation paper can be referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers for prosecution.
"The ministry hopes that the court will impose the maximum penalty on the offender if found guilty.
"At the same time, the MOT is formulating additional amendments to the Road Transport Act to mandate offenders to compensate victims’ families, on top of serving imprisonment," he said in a statement today.
Yesterday, Klang Selatan district police chief ACP Lim Jit Huey said a motorcyclist was killed after being hit by a car driven by an individual under the influence of alcohol and drugs along Jalan Raya Barat.
The 11.40am incident resulted in the victim, 30-year-old Amirul Hafiz Omar, being flung onto the roof of another car. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
This morning, the Klang Magistrate’s Court ordered the suspect, in his 20s, to be remanded for four days until Thursday (April 2) to assist investigations under Section 44(1) of the Road Transport Act and Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
Loke added that the MOT views the incident seriously and that the government is committed to strengthening laws and enforcement to ensure the safety of road users.
He also extended his condolences and sympathy to Amirul’s family.
"This loss is deeply heartbreaking, and such incidents not only claim innocent lives but also constitute a form of criminal negligence that is entirely unacceptable,” Loke said.
