Sarawak senator urges tougher DUI laws after fatal Klang crash
by Churchill Edward · Borneo Post OnlineKUCHING (April 4): Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Hulu Rajang branch chairman has called on the Malaysian government to review and tighten laws on driving under the influence of alcohol following a fatal crash in Klang that claimed the life of a father of three.
Abun, who is also a lawyer, proposed that individuals who consume alcohol should not be allowed to drive regardless of proven intoxication levels. He also suggested life imprisonment and lifetime revocation of driving licences for repeat offenders whose actions result in death.
Abun said the tragedy, which resulted in the death of Amirul Hafiz Umar, believed to have been caused by a driver under the influence of alcohol, underscores the urgent need for tougher measures.
Describing the victim as the sole breadwinner of his family, Abun said the loss has left a widow, Nur Nadia, and three young children aged nine, seven and two without their source of support.
The incident has severely affected the welfare and future of the victim’s family.
“This incident cannot be taken lightly as it involves the loss of an innocent life and the future of a young family.
“Justice must be upheld for the victim and the family affected,” he said in a statement on Friday.
Abun urged Putrajaya to review and tighten existing laws on driving under the influence of alcohol, including imposing heavier penalties for cases involving fatalities.
Citing Saudi Arabia as an example of countries that adopt stricter policies, he said, the country prohibits alcohol consumption entirely, thereby eliminating drunk driving cases.
He also noted that Japan enforces strict penalties not only on drunk drivers but also on those who permit or assist them to drive.
At the same time, Abun said Malaysia could strengthen awareness campaigns by promoting the “designated driver” concept practised in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and Singapore.