Kuala lumpur: The Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) has expressed full support for the Cabinet's decision to amend the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333), which would require offenders to pay compensation to road crash victims. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr. Zulkifli Hasan emphasized that this legislative change aligns with ongoing efforts to explore the implementation of the 'diyat' mechanism, a form of syariah-based compensation, in collaboration with muftis and legal experts.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Zulkifli stated the department is prepared to offer expertise to ensure the proposed compensation mechanism is fair, devoid of loopholes, and protects the rights of families who have lost breadwinners due to road crashes. This statement follows Transport Minister Anthony Loke's announcement that the Cabinet agreed in principle to amend Act 333, empowering courts to mandate offenders to compensate victims or their next of kin as an additional penalty.
Dr. Zulkifli further noted that the Transport Ministry's stern approach towards road traffic offenders, especially those impaired by alcohol or drugs, is necessary. He highlighted that offenders must face full financial accountability to protect the welfare of victims' families, particularly in cases of gross negligence, such as driving under the influence.
Federal Territories Mufti Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the amendment is crucial for ensuring justice not only through punishment but also by considering the financial burden on victims and their families. He noted that the initiative aligns with Syariah principles, which focus on preserving life and protecting victims' rights through compensation.
Ahmad Fauwaz reiterated that the Federal Territories Mufti Department supports the amendment and is ready to provide guidance from an Islamic law perspective to develop a fair compensation system. He advocated for a robust mechanism to help victims' families rebuild while sending a clear message that road negligence is a serious offense.
Malaysian Syarie Lawyers Association (PGSM) President Musa Awang also expressed readiness to contribute expertise towards realizing the Amendment Bill to Act 333. He stressed the importance of establishing stringent laws to deliver swift justice to victims and deter community negligence on the roads.
Musa Awang concluded that if the amendment to Act 333 aims to enhance road safety, reduce accidents, ensure fair punishment, and lessen victims' burdens, it aligns with the principles of maqasid syariah, which guide the objectives of Islamic law.