Kuala Lumpur: Harsher penalties for reckless and negligent driving must be enforced to reduce the alarming number of fatalities and serious injuries from road accidents, particularly during the festive season, said Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. He urged the government and relevant authorities to impose higher fines and introduce mandatory license suspensions for reckless driving, speeding, and dangerous overtaking.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lee highlighted the need for repeat offenders to face stricter legal consequences, including possible jail time. The social activist also called for stricter enforcement on heavy vehicles, pointing out their significant contribution to road fatalities. He advocated for stricter inspections to ensure commercial vehicles are roadworthy and that drivers are neither overworked nor under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Lee also urged the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to enhance their presence by deploying more enforcement officers along highways and major roads, especially in accident-prone areas. He noted that artificial intelligence (AI)-powered surveillance cameras and automated number plate recognition (ANPR) systems should be expanded to detect traffic offenses in real-time.

Furthermore, he called for mandatory rest stops for long-distance drivers and immediate roadworthiness checks before peak travel seasons, particularly for express buses and lorries. While enforcement is crucial, Lee emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of responsible driving. Awareness campaigns should focus on personal accountability, promote safe driving habits, and highlight the devastating impact of reckless behavior on families and society.

Emphasizing that festive seasons should be a time of joy, not tragedy, he cautioned that without stronger enforcement, harsher penalties, and the integration of modern technology, the unnecessary loss of lives on the roads will persist.