Street Racing

The government will be reviewing existing traffic laws to mete harsher penalties to reckless motorists and repeat offenders, according to a report by The Sun.

The English language daily quoted deputy transport minister Datuk Aziz Kaprawi as saying that the move comes in the aftermath of a collision between a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and two Perodua Myvis – the latter allegedly involved in a six-car illegal street race – on the Duta-Ulu Klang Expressway (DUKE) on May 2. The incident killed three people on board the Pajero, including a six-month-old baby, inciting public anger.

"The ministry is ready to review the current traffic laws," Aziz Kaprawi said, adding that the transport ministry will consult all stakeholders in analysing the regulations. "If it's too lenient or there are some loopholes which limit taking action against bad motorists for showing disregard to road safety, we shall amend [the traffic law] or add some new elements, if necessary."

Both Myvi drivers are currently being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for causing death by reckless or dangerous driving, which could result in up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of RM20,000 upon conviction.

speeder

Last July, another motorist was sentenced to a four-year jail term, fined RM10,000 and received a three-year driving suspension for causing the deaths of four people on the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2) in September 2013, under the same charge.

Aziz Kaprawi said that he "completely understands" the anger shown by the public over the issue, and promised proper action will be taken against those who are guilty.

With regards to the allegation that the two Myvi drivers have eight and 11 outstanding traffic summonses, he said: "We will investigate and if it's true, appropriate action will be taken, including suspension of driving licenses."

In addition, Aziz Kaprawi said that the government will expand the Automated Enforcement System (AES) beyond the existing 14 locations, once the takeover by Boustead Holdings Berhad and the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) has been completed. "The AES is necessary as eyes on the road, so that people will be mindful not to drive or ride recklessly like what we have seen in this tragedy," he said.