The government has agreed in principle to introduce mandatory compensation for victims or next of kin of road accidents caused by drunk or drug-impaired drivers, adding financial restitution to existing criminal penalties.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the compensation mechanism will be incorporated into the next amendment to the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333), ensuring offenders are held accountable not only through imprisonment, fines and driving disqualification, but also for losses suffered by victims and their families.
The government is currently refining the form of compensation, assessment method and implementation framework before the proposed amendment is tabled in Parliament.
Under Section 44 of Act 333, motorists who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs and cause injury or death already face criminal penalties, while Section 45A covers driving with alcohol levels exceeding the permitted limit.
Loke said the government believes enforcement alone is insufficient, with its approach also covering prevention, education and tighter controls on high-risk drivers.
Meanwhile, Loke highlighted that the Road Transport Department and police will continue targeted enforcement operations, including alcohol checks at high-risk locations and times.
The government is also reviewing stronger demerit-point measures and tougher action against repeat offenders. Currently, drink-driving offences are brought directly to court and are not subject to demerit points.
Loke said the broader aim is to ensure action against drunk drivers provides stronger protection and recourse for victims and their families while reducing the risk of repeat offences.
The proposed compensation mechanism is intended to operate alongside existing criminal punishment rather than replace civil claims, insurance claims or other legal remedies.
