Raise the fine for running the red light

I REFER to Wong Chun Wai’s article “DBKL act leaves behind bitter taste” ( The Star, Nov 29) on the new rules and regulations on liquor sales in Kuala Lumpur.

While the rationale behind these new rules and regulations may be due to safety and health reasons, the remark by the deputy minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) that they could be extended to other states is baffling.

In the article, Wong mentioned that due to some high-profile cases of accidents due to drink driving, liquor has been blamed to the extent that it has become a myth that most fatal accidents are due to drink driving. According to him, most fatal accidents involved motorcyclists and have nothing to do with drink driving.

Violations of traffic laws are so common these days that I am extra cautious when driving, especially when I approach traffic lights. There will always be some motorists, especially motorcyclists, who will run the red light. Some motorcyclists also cut across the traffic instead of stopping.

While the Road Transport Act has been amended with a higher penalty and punishment for driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, my understanding of the law is that running the red light is also a compoundable offence with a fine of RM300.

I suggest that the Transport Ministry consider raising the fine for running the red light or even classifying this offence as non-compoundable.

Looking at the concerted efforts of the various government agencies to nab those who violate the rules of the movement control order, perhaps the relevant authorities could consider using the same approach to curb the menace of motorists who do not observe traffic rules.

LEE CHENG POH Penang