Loke: Govt has no plans to use 'blood money' system for fatal accident cases

The government has no plans to use “blood money” or the “diat” system for fatal accident cases, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

In his written reply to a question by Mumtaz Md Nawi (PN-Tumpat), Loke said the ministry believes that Malaysia’s existing laws are adequate to deal with such cases, including to serve justice and as deterrence.

“The ministry is of the view that punishments provided under existing laws are adequate to serve justice, act as a deterrent, provide rehabilitation opportunities to offenders, and are also respectful of human rights.

“Among the legal actions that will be taken against offenders who drive recklessly or in a dangerous manner and cause death under Section 41 of the Road Transport Act 1987 include a jail term of between five and 10 years and a fine of between RM20,000 and RM50,000.

“Offenders who commit the same offence for a second time or more will face a jail term of between 10 years and 15 years, and fined between RM50,000 and RM100,000,” he said.

According to Loke, the ministry also conducts continuous reviews of the relevant laws on road safety to ensure they are always relevant to protect road users.

In her question to the minister, Mumtaz had asked if Putrajaya has any plan to look into the diat system as an alternative solution to punishment in fatal accident cases.

Diat is an Arabic term for “blood money”, where the offender pays compensation to the family of a victim who has been killed.

According to Mumtaz, the system provides a more “mesra” (friendly) option for the victim’s family while giving a better future for the offender.

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