KUCHING: Datuk Willie Mongin has proposed significantly harsher penalties for serious traffic offenders, including a minimum fine of RM300,000, a five-year jail term, and the permanent revocation of driving licences.
During his debate on the Road Transport (Amendment) Bill 2026 in Parliament today, the Puncak Borneo MP said stricter punishments are necessary to serve as a stronger deterrent against dangerous road behaviour and to send a clear message that irresponsible actions on the road carry severe consequences.
“I would like to propose that the minimum fine be increased to RM300,000, or a prison sentence of five years, with the offender’s driving licence revoked permanently.”
Willie stressed that offences such as illegal racing and dangerous driving not only place offenders at risk but also endanger innocent road users and can result in tragic loss of life.
He described the amendment to the Road Transport Act 1987 as timely and necessary, noting that road safety challenges have become increasingly complex in recent years.
“Cases of illegal street racing, reckless driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and the activities of ‘tonto’ syndicates continue to occur and threaten the safety of road users. Therefore, the existing law must be strengthened to keep pace with current circumstances.”
Willie also said the amendment reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring justice for road accident victims and their families, many of whom are forced to endure physical, emotional and financial hardships caused by the negligence of others.
Under the proposed new Section 42A, individuals participating in illegal racing or suspected of involvement may face fines ranging from RM20,000 to RM100,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both. Repeat offenders could be fined between RM5,000 and RM50,000 and jailed for up to five years.
While welcoming the strengthened provisions, Willie emphasised that effective enforcement is equally important to ensure the success of the law.
“Good laws must be accompanied by effective enforcement. The authorities must ensure that every offence is dealt with firmly and without compromise.”
He also urged the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to intensify road safety education programmes to cultivate greater discipline and responsibility among motorists.
According to Willie, around 80 per cent of road accidents are caused by careless and irresponsible driving behaviour. He noted that road fatalities have continued to rise, increasing from 6,080 deaths in 2022 to 6,537 cases recorded as of December 2025.
Expressing his support for the amendment, Willie said it would help improve road safety, reduce accident rates and better protect the lives and welfare of Malaysians.
“This amendment is an important step towards creating safer roads for everyone.”
