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THE Opposition has urged the government to reconsider the imposition of the death penalty for drivers under the influence of alcohol who cause fatalities, following a tragic accident in Klang yesterday.
Machang Member of Parliament Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal said the opposition bloc views the incident, which claimed the life of a motorcyclist, as a grave example of extreme negligence rather than a simple traffic accident.
“This is not merely an accident but a form of gross recklessness that should be considered a serious crime against society,” he said.
He emphasised that current penalties have failed to provide sufficient deterrence.
“Incidents like this continue to recur, proving that the current legal approach is no longer adequate to address the increasingly worrying issue of drunk driving,” he said in a statement posted on Facebook today.
Wan Ahmad Fayhsal called on the government to take stronger measures by reviewing the implementation of the death penalty for drivers whose intoxicated actions result in death.
He stressed the need to amend existing laws, strengthen enforcement, and expand public awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence.
“Those who choose to drive while intoxicated should be considered as acting with intent to kill, given the high risk their actions pose to others.
“This is not about punishment alone, but sending a clear message that human life cannot be taken lightly and that any action endangering others will face the gravest consequences. Lives lost cannot be replaced. It is time for more drastic measures to protect public safety and ensure justice is served,” he added.
The call follows a fatal collision on Jalan Raya Barat in Klang, where a motorcyclist was struck by a Honda City allegedly driven at high speed by a man in his 20s under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The impact hurled the rider onto a Perodua Myvi, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
South Klang police chief ACP Lim Jit Huey reported that initial investigations indicate the driver had overtaken several vehicles before entering the opposite lane and colliding with the motorcycle.
The suspect has been detained, with the case being investigated under Section 44(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 and Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
The incident has reignited calls from lawmakers and road safety advocates for stricter penalties and proactive measures to curb reckless driving, particularly involving alcohol or drugs. - March 30, 2026