Strict action, including the possibility of heavier penalties, will be taken against individuals who drive recklessly or dangerously resulting in death, particularly in cases involving alcohol or drug impairment.
Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) director Datuk Seri Mohammed Hasbullah Ali said the approach is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen enforcement and send a clear message that negligence on the road will not be tolerated.
He stressed that authorities take every fatal accident seriously and will not compromise when it comes to legal action.
According to him, all traffic offences that lead to loss of life will be investigated thoroughly and transparently, without prejudice to any party.
“Firm action, including consideration of heavier punishment, will be taken against anyone found to have driven negligently or dangerously, resulting in death. This includes cases involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
He was commenting following a fatal accident that occurred on March 29 at about 11.30am along Jalan Raya Barat in Klang.
Preliminary investigations found that the crash involved a motorcycle and two other vehicles, where a car driven by a local man is believed to have entered the opposite lane while attempting to overtake, before colliding with a motorcycle travelling straight.
The impact resulted in the death of the 32-year-old motorcyclist at the scene.
Mohammed Hasbullah said the driver involved was charged at the Klang court on April 1 under Section 302 of the Penal Code, which carries the death penalty or imprisonment of not less than 30 years and not more than 40 years.
If the death sentence is not imposed, the offender may also face no fewer than 12 strokes of the cane.
He added that JSPT will continue to intensify enforcement efforts to ensure the safety of road users, while reminding the public to comply with traffic laws and practise responsible driving.
“Every road user has a role to play and must act responsibly to prevent tragedies that claim lives,” he said.
