COMMENT | On Monday, the Transport Ministry tabled amendments to the Road Transport Act, but why is the government suddenly cranking up penalties for traffic offences?

The official line is neat and tidy: to “strengthen” the Act’s regulatory and enforcement powers. In practice, it means heavier wallets will be hit harder - minimum fines climbing from RM300 to RM500 for offences ranging from speeding and illegal number plates to driving without a licence.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said among the key focuses of the amendments is strengthening measures against street racing, which continues to pose a serious threat to the safety of road users, particularly during weekends.

The bill proposes harsher punishment for those caught driving while suspended: up to three years’ imprisonment or a fine of RM3,000 to RM10,000, a significant jump from the previous maximum of one year or RM5,000.

Another clause makes...