PUTRAJAYA/IPOH. MALAYSIA March 30, 2026 – The Malaysian government has issued a strong warning that it will not tolerate drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs following the tragic death of Amirul Hafiz bin Omar in a crash along Jalan Raya Barat, Klang.
In an official statement today, Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook expressed condolences to the family of the victim, describing the incident as a “heart-wrenching loss” caused by criminal negligence that cannot be accepted.
“The government will not compromise with any individual who drives under the influence of alcohol or drugs because it clearly endangers the lives of other road users,” the minister said.
He reminded the public that amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987, passed in Dewan Rakyat and enforced since October 2020, have already imposed heavier penalties. Under Section 44 of the Act, a driver found guilty of causing death while under the influence faces a jail term of not less than 10 years and not more than 15 years, plus a fine between RM50,000 and RM100,000. For repeat offenders, the punishment is stiffer: 15 to 20 years’ imprisonment and a fine of RM100,000 to RM150,000.
The ministry has urged the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to complete a thorough investigation quickly so the case file can be referred to the Attorney-General’s Chambers for prosecution. It also hopes the court will impose the maximum sentence if the offender is convicted.
The minister added that the ministry is currently drafting further amendments to the Act to compel guilty drivers to pay compensation to the families of victims, in addition to the jail terms.
Separately, DAP Secretary for International Affairs Kasthuri Patto, in a media statement issued in Ipoh today, strongly condemned the “irresponsible act” of the driver who consumed alcohol and drugs before getting behind the wheel.
“This is not a race or ethnic issue but an issue on prevention, collective responsibility, stricter penalties and vigorous implementation of the law,” she said.
Kasthuri disagreed with calls for the death penalty for drunk drivers, describing it as a “failed theory and one that is very colonial in approach.” Instead, she urged lawmakers to look at data, international standards and successful European practices.
She highlighted proven prevention measures used in countries such as Sweden, Belgium, Finland, France, Denmark, Italy, Australia, Canada, the United States and New Zealand, including alcohol interlocks (alcolocks) for repeat offenders, immediate administrative licence suspension, and mandatory breath-test kits in nightclubs, bars and restaurants.
France’s “SAM” designated-driver campaign – with the slogan “The one who drives is the one who doesn’t drink” – and partnerships with drink companies to provide free non-alcoholic drinks to designated drivers were cited as effective examples. She also noted that bartenders and pub owners in some European countries hold onto car keys of intoxicated patrons and arrange safe transport home.
Kasthuri stressed that while harsher penalties are necessary, the real focus must be on prevention before accidents happen. She called for Malaysia to draw up a 5- or 10-year national plan involving government funding, stakeholders and community participation.
“Frequent and regular unannounced checks by the police are needed. Body cameras must be mandatory for police, traffic police and JPJ officers. The public must support this too,” she said, criticising WhatsApp groups that alert drivers to roadblocks.
She added that drink companies should play a bigger role, similar to the Brewers of Europe, and that friends must encourage intoxicated individuals to use public transport or safe alternatives.
“An innocent life lost is mourned by all of us regardless of race or religion. We stand united in condemning those who choose to sit behind the wheel while being intoxicated,” Kasthuri declared.
Both statements underline a shared commitment to strengthening road safety through stricter enforcement, education, and preventive infrastructure to protect all road users in Malaysia.
About The Author
