Malaysia to amend road transport law, impose compensation duties on impaired drivers

Malaysia's government will move forward with amendments to the Road Transport Act that would compel drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs to provide financial compensation to victims of traffic accidents, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced. The legislative modification forms part of efforts to enhance victim support and strengthen accountability measures within the transport sector. Under the proposed amendments, impaired drivers would face mandatory compensation obligations alongside existing criminal penalties. The move reflects growing concerns over road safety and the need for stronger deterrents against impaired driving across the country. Officials have not yet specified implementation timelines or compensation frameworks for the revised legislation.