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A video showing a motorcyclist being flung onto a car after being hit by another vehicle — allegedly driven by someone under the influence of drugs — has sparked outrage among Malaysians
The victim, a father of three, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Statistically, cases involving intoxicated drivers may not make up the biggest share of road accidents.
But incidents like this hit differently — because they are entirely preventable, and more often than not, it's innocent people who pay the price.
And once again, the same question comes up: are our laws actually strong enough?
Malaysia does not take drunk driving lightly
| Offence | First-Time Offence | Repeat Offence |
|---|---|---|
| In charge while intoxicated |
Fine: RM1,000 – RM5,000 Jail: Up to 2 years Licence ban: Min 2 years |
Fine: RM20,000 – RM50,000 Jail: Up to 5 years Licence ban: Min 5 years |
| Exceeding alcohol limit |
Fine: RM10,000 – RM30,000 Jail: Up to 2 years Licence ban: Min 2 years |
Fine: RM20,000 – RM50,000 Jail: Up to 5 years |
| Causing injury |
Fine: RM30,000 – RM50,000 Jail: 7 – 10 years Licence ban: Min 10 years |
Fine: RM50,000 – RM100,000 Jail: 10 – 15 years Licence ban: 10 years |
| Causing death |
Fine: RM50,000 – RM100,000 Jail: 10 – 15 years Licence ban: Min 10 years |
Fine: RM100,000 – RM150,000 Jail: 15 – 20 years Licence ban: Up to 20 years |
How do other countries deal with drunk drivers?
Japan goes a step further by not just punishing the driver.
If someone provides a vehicle or alcohol to a person they know is likely to drive while intoxicated, they face three to five years in prison or fines of up to 1,000,000 yen (RM30,000).
Those who encourage someone to drink despite knowing they will drive can face two to three years' jail or fines of up to 500,000 yen (RM15,000).
Even passengers who knowingly ride with a drunk driver can be punished with similar penalties.
The idea is simple: create strong social pressure and a near zero-tolerance culture.
Australia, meanwhile, takes a slightly different approach — making it harder to drive rather than relying heavily on jail time
With around 30% of road accidents linked to alcohol, strict enforcement focuses on fines, licence suspension, and prevention.
In New South Wales (NSW), a first low-range drink driving offence can result in fines of around AUD704 (RM2,200) or up to AUD2,200 (RM6,800), with higher penalties for repeat or more serious offences.
Offenders can also face immediate licence suspension and disqualification — typically at least three months for a first offence, and much longer for repeat cases or higher alcohol levels.
In Victoria, police can immediately suspend licences for high Blood Alcohol Concentration readings, and courts can impose longer disqualification periods.
Vehicles may also be impounded or immobilised, especially for repeat offenders.
Some drivers are also required to install alcohol interlock devices — breathalysers fitted into cars that prevent the engine from starting if alcohol is detected.
In Victoria, for example, these devices can be mandatory for 12 to 36 months for serious or repeat offences.
