Kuala lumpur: Cases of reckless and dangerous driving have increased by nearly 50 per cent in the first six months of this year compared to the same period last year. The increase reflects a worrying trend of aggressive driving, which could lead to road bullying or road rage incidents.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) director Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali stated that 1,278 investigation papers were opened from January 1 to June 28 this year, compared to 852 cases in the same period last year, marking an increase of 426 cases.
Johor recorded the highest number of cases this year with 354, followed by Kuala Lumpur (230), Selangor (200), Negeri Sembilan (119), Kelantan (84), Perak (60), Terengganu (49), Sarawak (44), Melaka (37), Kedah (33), Penang (27), Pahang (24), Sabah (15), and Perlis (2). Compared to the same period last year, Johor also saw the highest increase with 175 cases, followed by Selangor (+117), Kuala Lumpur (+74), and other states with varying increases, while some states recorded declines.
The main causes of road bullying include non-compliance with traffic rules and signals, aggressive driving such as dangerous overtaking and tailgating, and failure to give way. Other contributing factors involve provocation between road users, impatience, and a lack of courtesy on the road.
Responding to social media claims that some drivers use vape laced with drugs while driving, Muhammed Hasbullah said that PDRM acknowledges a trend involving vape products mixed with psychoactive substances or synthetic drugs. Enforcement efforts are being strengthened, including proposals for saliva test kits and mandatory urine screening for commercial vehicle drivers involved in road accidents.
Muhammed Hasbullah emphasized that PDRM takes firm action against road rage incidents, with offenders facing arrest and charges if cases involve threats, fights, property damage, or injury. Reckless and dangerous driving under Section 42 of the Road Transport Act 1987 carries penalties of up to five years' imprisonment and fines of RM5,000 to RM15,000 upon conviction.
He added that existing laws are sufficient to address road rage, with additional actions taken under the Penal Code depending on the offence, such as causing hurt or property damage. Swift police action on viral road rage videos is crucial to show complaints are taken seriously and to strengthen public confidence in enforcement.
Bernama previously reported that aggressive driving has increasingly drawn public attention, with incidents frequently going viral on social media, prompting calls for stronger enforcement and awareness efforts.