Getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol is a serious crime!
Even though some drivers do not show warning signs of being under the influence, that doesn’t mean it’s any less dangerous. You can be fined up to RM150,000 or jailed for up to 20 years if you are caught driving while intoxicated.
Photo via Malay Mail
Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Dr. Wee Ka Siong said that even first-time offenders will have to face similar heavy penalties of 15 years in jail and a fine of RM100,000.
This is in relation to the amendment of the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) which is in the midst of being finalised, and currently, the penalties for first-time offenders are 10 years imprisonment and a RM20,000 fine.
Wee said: “We are doing this because we are serious about drink driving and as we all know, this year alone, there are already 12 deaths reported involving drink driving.”
“Our warning is simple. If you have been drinking or you are already drunk, do not drive. If you still drive, you will have to pay the price,” he further told the Dewan Rakyat today (15 July), when asked by Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim (UMNO-Arau) to state the type of penalties that Malaysians can expect from Act 333.
Photo via Malay Mail
Amendments of Act 333 will also involve legal provisions between Section 41 and Section 45, the imposition of heavier punishments as well as tightening the threshold value of alcohol presence on an individual’s blood, breath, and urine.
Aside from the police, Road Transport Department (JPJ) enforcement officers, too, will be given the power to make arrests.
“Other countries have done this and it is time Malaysia does the same. You can drink but don’t put others in danger,” he said.
Be a responsible driver, and don’t danger others on the road!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
