KUALA LUMPUR: Transport Minister Wee Ka Siong says a mandatory fine for those found guilty of reckless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is among the proposals to be included in amendments to the Road Transport Act.
Wee said the Cabinet had on June 24 agreed in principle to amend Sections 41 to 45 of the act.
“Among the proposals for drink driving and causing death is a maximum jail sentence, from 15 years’ imprisonment for first offences and 20 years for following offences.
“The rates for fines are also proposed at RM20,000 to RM100,000 for first offences and RM150,000 for following offences.
“Meanwhile, an increase in duration of licence suspension is recommended, from 10 to 20 years,” he said in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Wee said the Attorney-General’s Chambers had gone through the draft of the amendments, which would be presented to the Cabinet on July 17 before being debated in the Dewan Rakyat in this session.
“You can drink as much as you want, but when drinking alcohol, don’t drive a vehicle. If you want to drive, then don’t drink alcoholic drinks. This is our approach,” he said.
He said other issues had also arisen such as the attitude of some e-hailing drivers who refuse to transport passengers who have been drinking.
“I’ve been made to understand that Grab drivers don’t really like to fetch customers who are under the influence of alcohol. They are worried that they might throw up in their car. But don’t worry, we will explain this.
“The aame goes for those who drive under the influence but stop at the roadside when they see police roadblocks. We will also act against those. Fleeing from alcohol tests is also considered an offence,” he said.
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