CAP calls for lifetime driving bans for drunk drivers, motorists high on drugs

GEORGE TOWN: The Consumers' Association of Penang (CAP) has called for tougher penalties, including lifetime driving bans and mandatory jail terms, for motorists caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

CAP senior education officer N.V. Subbarow said drink-driving and driving under the influence of drugs posed a serious threat to road users, with innocent pedestrians and motorists paying the price for reckless behaviour.

He called on the Transport Ministry and police to step up enforcement through regular roadblocks, alcohol screening and drug tests on motorists suspected of driving under the influence.

Subbarow said offenders should have their licences revoked immediately. He also called for heavier fines and longer jail terms to deter repeat offences.

"Drink-driving is a preventable crime that puts innocent lives at risk.

"Those who engage in such behaviour must face severe consequences, particularly when their actions result in serious injuries or deaths," he said today.

When tabling the 2027 Budget, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said motorists who caused accidents while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs would be required to compensate their victims under a proposed amendment to the Road Transport Act.

He said the proposed amendment would make compensation mandatory for victims of accidents involving drunk drivers or motorists high on drugs.

Subbarow said some motorists appeared to regard drinking alcohol or taking drugs before driving as normal, despite the serious danger they posed to other road users.

"We demand stricter measures to prevent alcohol from being carried in vehicles, including motorcycles, to curb drink-driving," he said.

He stressed that enforcement must be firm, consistent and carried out without fear or favour to ensure offenders were held accountable.

Motorists must not be allowed to endanger lives on the road, he said, reiterating his call for lifetime driving bans for those caught driving under the influence.

"Roads must be safe, not places where innocent people live in fear," he added.