Should Putrajaya amend the Road Transport Act 1987 on drink-driving without rushing?

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Putrajaya Urged Not to Rush Amendments to Road Transport Act on Drink-Driving Without Comprehensive Review

The government is being advised against a hasty amendment of the Road Transport Act 1987 concerning drink-driving, with a call for a more comprehensive approach that prioritises the welfare of victims' families. This recommendation stems from the observation that current proposals focus primarily on increased penalties, such as longer jail terms, higher fines, and extended licence suspensions, without adequately addressing the long-term needs of those affected by drunk-driving incidents.
Focus on Victim Welfare in Proposed Amendments

A significant concern raised is the absence of provisions within the existing Act 333 specifically dedicated to the welfare of victims and their families. Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Halim Sidek, secretary of the National Council of Professors' Political, Security and International Cluster, has highlighted that while punishment for offenders is important, it does not resolve the fundamental issues faced by the families of victims. He argues that a truly effective amendment must incorporate measures to support these families, suggesting that this aspect has been overlooked in the current legislative push.
Insufficiency of Increased Penalties Alone

The argument against a rushed amendment is premised on the belief that merely increasing fines and jail sentences will not effectively solve the underlying problem of drink-driving. While the Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, announced on July 15 that proposed amendments including these harsher penalties are slated for tabling in the current Parliament session, critics suggest this approach is incomplete. The emphasis on punitive measures, without a parallel focus on victim support, is seen as a potential oversight that could diminish the overall impact and fairness of the revised law.
Need for a Holistic Legislative Approach

The call for a comprehensive amendment underscores the need for a legislative framework that addresses multiple facets of the drink-driving issue. This includes not only deterring potential offenders through stricter penalties but also providing a robust support system for victims and their families. The absence of such provisions in the current Act 333 suggests a gap that needs to be filled through a more thorough review and consultation process before any legislative changes are finalised and implemented.

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Should Putrajaya amend the Road Transport Act 1987 on drink-driving without rushing?

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