PM calls for stiffer drink-driving penalties

Updated 3 years ago · Published on 30 May 2020 5:38PM · 1 Comments

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin says the amendment should finalised by mid-June before it is tabled in the next Parliament sitting. – The Malaysian Insight file pic, May 30, 2020. 

PRIME Minister Muhyiddin Yassin today ordered the Transport Ministry to amend the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) so that heavier penalties can be meted out on those drink-driving. 

“I understand the amendment will be finalised mid-June before it is tabled in the next Parliament sitting. 

“It is hoped that this amendment will provide for heavier mandatory penalties in line with the offences committed by drunk drivers who not only cause injuries but also fatalities,” he said on social media today. 

The move will also bring justice to the families of victims of drink-driving cases, he added. 

Police statistics show there were 21 road crashes involving drink-drivers over the last five months and of those, eight died.  

Muhyiddin said this is worrying as the figure was almost the total number of such cases last year. 

Those convicted for drink-driving can be charged under Section 45A(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 which carries a fine of between RM1,000 and RM6,000 or jail of up to 12 months. 

If fatalities occurred, offenders are liable under Section 44 of the same Act to 10 years’ jail and a maximum fine of RM20,000. – Bernama, May 30, 2020.

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Comments

  • I agree to stiffer penalties but it only works if the police do regular widespread spontaneous checks. However, road checks should cover all infringements. Unroadworthiness of vehicles, not wearing seat belts, too many passengers and lack of child seats especially for babies.all of these contraventions can result in death too. I don't want to read about any more children flying out of cars in a crash and being killed.

    Posted 3 years ago by Malaysia New hope · Reply