Those found to be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be slapped with stiffer fines and punishments soon.

According to Transport Minister Anthony Loke, the cabinet has today agreed to review and amend the existing provisions and tighten laws concerning driving under the influence (DUI) and reckless driving.

Discussions will be held with the relevent stakeholders, including the police and the Attorney-General's Chambers on the way forward, the minister told a press conference after the cabinet meeting in Putrajaya.

The amendments are expected to be tabled in Parliament the latest by July this year.

Loke said among the provisions that could be reviewed include the prescribed limit of alcohol content in the driver's blood, from the current 80mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood, to 50mg in 100ml of blood as per the international limit set by the World Health Organisation.

He added that his ministry will also step up its campaign against drunk driving, while the amendments are being drafted.

Currently, drunk drivers face a maximum of 10 years in jail and fined up to RM20,000.

As for reckless driving, Loke said his ministry will also relook into existing provisions to see if there is need to increase existing punishment. To this end, Section 41 of the Road Transport Act which concerns reckless and dangerous driving which concerns fatality, will be reviewed, he added.

At present, reckless drivers who cause death, can be put behind bars for up to 10 years, and fined a maximum of RM20,000, on top of being banned from driving for at least 3 years.


Source: The Star
Photo source: Astro Awani