Kuala lumpur: The Transport Ministry (MOT) is proposing amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 to introduce a compensation mechanism for victims or their lawful next of kin in cases of road accidents resulting in death or serious injury, the Dewan Rakyat was told today. Minister Anthony Loke stated that under the proposed amendments, the court would be empowered to order offenders convicted of serious offences under the act to pay compensation to victims or their next of kin based on the facts and merits of each case.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Loke explained that factors such as the severity of injuries or loss of life, the losses suffered, and the offender's ability to pay would be considered in determining compensation. This initiative aims to ensure that drivers causing deaths through dangerous driving and illegal racing face significant legal consequences, distinguishing them from ordinary traffic offenders.
The minister also highlighted efforts to curb illegal racing through the newly passed Road Transport (Amendment) Bill 2026. This legislation introduces a specific offence for illegal racing, with a first offence carrying a fine between RM2,000 and RM10,000, or imprisonment for up to two years, or both. Subsequent offences carry heavier fines and longer imprisonment terms. The amendment allows for pre-emptive action against individuals involved in illegal racing, with penalties applicable even before an accident occurs.
Loke mentioned recent enforcement operations, including one in Johor, which resulted in 16 arrests and the seizure of 260 motorcycles due to illegal racing activities. He cited a tragic accident on June 1 at Km27 of Jalan Renggam-Simpang Renggam in Johor, which claimed five lives, as a case being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code.
In response to a proposal for a cross-ministerial national strategy to tackle illegal racing, Loke emphasized that road safety is a national priority requiring collaboration across ministries, community leaders, and the public. He stressed the importance of behavioral changes and public awareness to reduce road accidents, which annually claim over 6,000 lives.
Loke concluded by urging for societal cooperation and depoliticization of road safety issues, stating that the ultimate goal is to enhance the safety of the country's roads for all.