Klang: The 'diyat' mechanism as a Syariah-based compensation should be explored as an instrument of justice for the family of Amirul Hafiz Omar, who was killed in a suspected drink-driving crash at Jalan Raya Barat, Klang, Selangor, yesterday, says Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan. He emphasized the importance of considering the diyat approach to ensure justice and protection for the bereaved family.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zulkifli Hasan expressed his condemnation of the tragic incident involving Amirul Hafiz Omar, who lost his life due to a driver believed to be intoxicated and positive for drugs. He highlighted that driving under the influence not only breaches the law but also poses a serious threat to public safety. Dr Zulkifli described the incident as a form of negligence that resulted in the loss of an invaluable life.
Dr Zulkifli mentioned that discussions on implementing diyat began on February 11 in Putrajaya, including muftis, key figures, and experts from the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs). The initiative aims to ensure justice for heirs and support the implementation of diyat.
He also acknowledged the Ministry of Transport's efforts to amend Section 44 of the Road Transport Act 1987, which would mandate offenders to compensate victims' families in addition to serving imprisonment. He expressed hope that justice would be served and that the incident would remind road users of their responsibilities.
The incident was reported by South Klang District Police chief ACP Lim Jit Huey, who stated that a motorcyclist was killed after being hit by a car driven by an intoxicated individual. The crash, occurring at 11.40 am, resulted in the victim being thrown onto another car's roof and pronounced dead at the scene. A video of the accident circulated on social media, depicting the speeding car overtaking dangerously and colliding with the motorcycle.
Following the incident, Wafiyuddin Musa, secretary-general of the Federation of Peninsular Malay Students (GPMS), supported the diyat proposal. He advocated for its expansion as a compensation mechanism for victims' families, regardless of race or religion, as it provides immediate relief compared to lengthy and costly civil claims.
Wafiyuddin also suggested introducing a mandatory compensation mechanism for families of victims involved in fatal accidents caused by intoxicated drivers. GPMS offered pro bono legal assistance to support victims' families in legal proceedings and proposed strengthening the designated driver concept through national campaigns and policy backing to prevent individuals who consume alcohol from driving. He highlighted initiatives like Buddy Driver by Trevo as crucial steps to promote safe driving and reduce fatal crashes.