A father in Sibu faces legal consequences after a video showing his 11-year-old autistic son self-driving a car went viral. The incident drew significant attention on social media, prompting swift action from local authorities.
Sibu district police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili confirmed that the father was issued a summons under Section 26(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. This action followed the successful location of the boy by police at 6:50 PM yesterday. Both the child and his father were brought to the Sibu traffic police department for further investigation.
The police chief revealed that the young driver, who is autistic, has a documented medical history at the Psychiatry Specialist Clinic in Sibu Hospital. The boy’s condition and his actions in the video have added complexity to the situation, highlighting issues of parental responsibility and the safety of individuals with special needs.
The viral video, which was recorded by a bystander, began circulating widely on social media around 3 PM yesterday. It showed the boy driving alone along Jalan Kampung Nyabor, a busy road in Sibu. The 30-second clip, uploaded at 12:15 PM, quickly garnered attention and sparked a flurry of reactions and concerns from the public.
Upon receiving information about the video, police acted promptly to track down the boy and his father. The incident underscores the importance of vigilant parenting and the potential dangers posed by unsupervised children, especially those with special needs, operating vehicles.
In his statement, ACP Zulkipli Suhaili emphasized the seriousness of the matter. He noted that allowing an underaged and medically unfit individual to drive poses significant risks not only to the driver but also to public safety. The police investigation aims to uncover the circumstances that led to the boy driving the car and to ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The community has expressed mixed reactions to the incident, with many voicing concerns over the safety and well-being of the child. Some have called for increased awareness and support for families with autistic children, stressing the need for resources that help parents manage such challenges effectively.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities parents hold in ensuring the safety of their children and the broader public. It also highlights the necessity for tailored interventions and support systems for children with special needs to prevent potentially dangerous situations.
As the investigation continues, the Sibu police department urges the public to report any similar incidents immediately to help safeguard the community. The case has opened a broader dialogue on road safety, parental responsibility, and the care required for children with autism.
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