Stricter penalties, including jail, slated for Malaysia's 'Mat Rempit' riders from Nov 1

Parliament has passed amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 that will allow courts to impose imprisonment for "Mat Rempit" offences, with the new regime expected to take effect on Nov 1 after gazetting. Senior enforcement director Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan of the Road Transport Department said the changes give officers broader powers under Section 42(a) to tackle illegal racing and hazardous riding. The department is currently awaiting feedback from the Attorney-General's Chambers before the gazette is issued.

Kifli emphasized that dangerous riding is a national concern requiring continuous enforcement by relevant agencies. He also noted that persistent problems at Sultan Ismail Petra Airport will be addressed through closer coordination between the Road Transport Department and police. The revised law aims to curb road hooliganism and improve safety for all road users.