Why are the amendments focused on serious and repeat traffic offences?

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Amendments Target Serious and Repeat Traffic Offences Due to Public Safety Concerns

The proposed amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 are primarily focused on serious and repeat traffic offences due to their significant potential to endanger other road users. The government intends to increase the maximum compound rate for over 700 traffic offences to RM500, a substantial rise from the current RM300 limit, to serve as a stronger deterrent. This initiative aims to address specific dangerous behaviours, including illegal racing and the disruptive "tonto" activities, by introducing stricter penalties and enhanced enforcement powers.
Addressing Endangerment from Serious Traffic Violations

The core rationale behind strengthening penalties for traffic offences lies in mitigating the severe risks they pose to public safety. Offences such as driving without a valid licence, insurance, or road tax, as well as parking violations and failure to obey traffic signals, create hazardous situations. Repeat offenders in these categories demonstrate a disregard for regulations designed to protect all road users, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The proposed amendments seek to impose a more significant financial consequence for these violations, aiming to deter individuals from repeatedly flouting traffic laws that could lead to injury or fatalities.
Tackling High-Risk Activities Like Illegal Racing and "Tonto"

Specific provisions are being introduced to combat highly dangerous activities like illegal street racing, often associated with "mat rempit" culture, and "tonto" operations. "Mat rempit" activities involve the dangerous modification and reckless riding of motorcycles, frequently at high speeds in public areas, posing a direct threat to themselves and others. "Tonto" refers to individuals who act as escorts or lookouts for illegal racing or other illicit activities, often obstructing enforcement officers. The amendments propose a new Section 42A to grant clearer powers against illegal racing and speed trials, and strengthen Section 110B to enable authorities to disperse "tonto" gatherings, seize vehicles, and detain participants, alongside imposing higher penalties including fines, jail terms, and licence suspension.
Enhancing Enforcement and Deterrence Through Compound Restructuring

The planned amendments will involve a comprehensive restructuring of compound rates for over 700 offence types, moving beyond a blanket increase to RM500 for all. This restructuring aims to assign penalties that are more commensurate with the severity of the offence, with the RM500 figure representing a new maximum for many. The goal is to create a more effective deterrent, particularly for those who repeatedly commit traffic violations. By increasing the financial burden associated with serious offences, the authorities hope to encourage greater compliance and reduce the incidence of dangerous driving behaviours on Malaysian roads.
Extending Regulations to Micromobility Vehicles

In recognition of the growing use of micromobility vehicles, such as electric scooters, the amendments will also introduce specific regulations for their use. This includes defining conditions for road usage, specifying permitted routes, setting speed limits, establishing a minimum user age, and outlining penalties for non-compliance. This proactive measure aims to integrate these new forms of transport safely into the existing traffic ecosystem and prevent potential conflicts or accidents arising from their unregulated operation on public roads.

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Why are the amendments focused on serious and repeat traffic offences?

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