Ipoh, Perak – Democratic Action Party (DAP) International Secretary Kasthuri Patto has called for a comprehensive and prevention-focused approach to tackling drunk driving, stressing that the issue should not be framed along racial or ethnic lines.
In a media statement issued on Monday, Kasthuri strongly condemned a recent incident involving a driver allegedly under the influence of alcohol and drugs, which resulted in the death of an innocent man.
She described the act as deeply irresponsible, noting that the tragedy had left a family devastated after losing a husband and father.
While public outrage over the incident has been widespread, Kasthuri expressed concern over the tone of discourse on social media, where comments had veered into racial attacks against the driver.
“This is not a race or religious issue, but one of prevention, collective responsibility, stricter penalties, and effective enforcement,” she said.
Rejects Death Penalty Proposal
Kasthuri also disagreed with calls by Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal for the death penalty for drunk drivers who cause fatalities, arguing that such measures would not address the root causes of the problem.
She described the proposal as ineffective and lacking empirical support, urging policymakers to rely on data, international standards, and best practices rather than “knee-jerk reactions.”
Emphasis on Prevention and Enforcement
While supporting stricter penalties, Kasthuri stressed that enforcement, public education, and preventive measures must be prioritised.
“Harsher punishments only take effect after a crime is committed. Prevention must be equally, if not more, important,” she said, adding that individuals who choose to drink and drive must be held accountable without fear or favour.
Learning from International Best Practices
Kasthuri highlighted several international approaches to tackling drunk driving, including the use of alcohol interlock devices in countries such as Sweden, France, and Australia, which require drivers to pass a breath test before starting their vehicles.
She noted that in Italy, convicted offenders are required to install such devices at their own expense, costing up to €2,000 (approximately RM9,238), while many countries also enforce immediate licence suspensions.
In France, nightlife establishments are required to provide breath-testing devices and promote designated driver campaigns, while alcohol producers have collaborated with authorities to encourage safer practices.
Call for National Strategy
Kasthuri urged Malaysia to adopt a long-term strategy, proposing a five- to ten-year national plan involving government funding, stakeholder participation, and community engagement to address drunk driving and alcohol abuse.
She also called for stronger enforcement measures, including regular unannounced roadblocks and the mandatory use of body cameras by police and enforcement officers to strengthen evidence collection.
At the same time, she criticised public behaviour that undermines enforcement efforts, such as sharing roadblock locations on messaging platforms.
Collective Responsibility
Kasthuri stressed that tackling drunk driving requires a whole-of-society approach, including responsible behaviour among individuals, support from friends and communities, and active participation by companies in the alcohol industry.
“This is not a war against alcohol, but against irresponsible drunk drivers,” she said, reiterating that the issue transcends race and religion.
She added that every loss of life due to drunk driving is a shared tragedy, calling for unity in addressing the issue and preventing further fatalities.
