Malaysia Proposes Amendment to Road Transport Act, Introducing New Section 42A to Combat Illegal Racing

Neighboring countries like Thailand and Indonesia have similar issues too, so it feels like a region-wide problem.

First time hearing the term "mat rempit" — turns out it basically means illegal street racers.

The mat rempit issue has been a deep-rooted social problem talked about in Malaysia for decades.

Without the actual figure for how heavy the fine is, you can't judge how much of a deterrent it really is.

Even with the new provision, if enforcement resources on the ground are lacking, its real-world effectiveness will be limited.

Establishing Section 42A to target mat rempit and strengthening the crackdown on illegal racing is a welcome move.