Drunk Drivers to Face Harsher Penalties

The Cabinet has given its approval in principle to amend Sections 41 to 45 of the Road Transport Act, allowing for harsher penalties against those found to be driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, said Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong today.

In his reply during Question Time, the transport minister added that the Attorney General’s Chambers has gone through the draft Bill that will be presented for the Cabinet’s final approval on July 17 prior to its tabling a week later.

“Under Section 44, currently the maximum jail time for is 10 years. The amendment will see first-time offenders facing 15 years imprisonment for the first offence and 20 years for the subsequent offence.

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“Currently, the maximum fine for those found guilty is RM20,000. So, for example, the amendment might see it increase this to RM100,000 for the first offence and RM150,000 for the following offence. We will also suspend their drivers’ licence for 20 years, from 10 years (now),” said Wee.

Section 44 covers those found guilty of driving under the influence of intoxicants such as liquor and drugs.

The minister stressed that those convicted of causing death through drunk driving would face even stiffer penalties including possible mandatory imprisonment, but said he will only elaborate once the amendments were tabled.

SOURCE
Author: Azril Annuar
Publication: Malay Mail
Title: Transport minister: Cabinet has approved harsher penalties for drunk drivers

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