SUPP Youth: Laws against drunk driving insufficient as deterrent

MIRI (April 1): Drunk or drug-impaired driving, especially those that result in fatalities, must not be tolerated, said Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Youth Central vice chairman Kelvin Hii.

“Driving under the influence is a human choice, and when such actions lead to the destruction of another family, it is simply unforgivable,” he said in a press statement following a recent drunk driving incident in Klang that claimed the life of a young motorcyclist.

Citing statistics, Hii said that over a thousand cases of drunk driving or drug-impaired driving were reported annually in Malaysia, although he believes the actual number is likely higher due to undetected and unrecorded cases.

“Both drunk driving and drug-impaired driving are equally serious issues and must be addressed with urgency,” he stressed.

Under the amended Road Transport Act 1987, offenders caught driving under the influence without causing injury or death may face fines from RM10,000 to RM30,000, and imprisonment of up to two years upon conviction.

However, in cases where such offences result in death, penalties include imprisonment of between 10 and 15 years, fines ranging from RM50,000 to RM100,000, as well as a driving ban of no less than 10 years.

Hii pointed out that in comparison, similar fatal cases classified as culpable homicide under Sections 299 and 304 of the Penal Code carry heavier sentences of up to 30 years’ imprisonment.

“Penalties for drunk and drug-impaired driving, especially those causing death, should be made more severe. Only sufficiently harsh consequences can serve as an effective deterrent,” he said.

He proposed that offenders who cause death while driving under the influence should not only face stricter legal punishment but also bear greater responsibility towards victims’ families.

“This could include providing long-term financial support, or even facing life imprisonment, as such deaths are entirely preventable,” he added.

Hii also highlighted the prevalence of hit-and-run incidents linked to driving under the influence, which often result in damage to public infrastructure such as streetlights, road dividers, guardrails and traffic signboards.

He urged authorities to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible.

“Strict penalties must be imposed to ensure that the offenders bear the cost of repairs instead of burdening taxpayers,” he said.

At the same time, Hii reminded the public to practise responsible drinking habits.

“If you have consumed alcohol, arrange for a designated driver or use e-hailing services. Drinking should always be done in a safe and responsible environment without endangering others,” he said, adding that drug-impaired driving should never be tolerated under any circumstances.