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SHAH ALAM – Road bullies and “mat rempit” riders will face heavier penalties, including imprisonment, from Nov 1 following the enforcement of amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333).
Road Transport Department (JPJ) Senior Director of Enforcement Datuk Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan said the amendments, which had been approved by Parliament, were now awaiting final gazettement after the department received feedback from the Attorney General’s Chambers.
“The amendments to Act 333 have been approved by Parliament and, if everything goes smoothly, will come into force next month.
“The Act will impose much heavier penalties, including imprisonment, for offences involving ‘mat rempit’,” he said in a podcast.
Kifli said the amendments would also assist investigating officers in taking action under Section 42(a) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
He said the new provisions would strengthen enforcement against illegal racing, road bullying and dangerous riding or driving.
“These amendments will also provide stronger legal provisions for enforcement agencies to take action against individuals who endanger the safety of road users.
“‘Mat rempit’ activities are a national issue and require continuous enforcement,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kifli said the recurring “mat rempit” problem at Sultan Ismail Petra Airport would be addressed through closer cooperation between JPJ and other enforcement agencies.
“The issue of ‘mat rempit’ at Kota Bharu airport is a recurring problem, and JPJ will cooperate with the police to ensure enforcement action continues to be taken,” he said.
