MCA Youth: Greater parental, institutional responsibility needed to curb underage driving
AN MCA Youth leader has expressed concern over the increasing number of underage children riding motorcycles and driving cars without a licence.
Its national deputy chairman Mike Chong Yew Chuan was responding to an incident in Johor on Saturday (June 21) where two 14-year-old students were involved in an accident resulting in the death of the pillion rider who was thrown under a lorry and was run over.
Calling for conducive reform to tackle this matter, Chong said stronger enforcement of the Road Transport Act 1987 (RTA), especially Section 26(1), is long overdue.
Under Section 26 (1) of the RTA, action can be taken against the owner of the vehicle driven by someone who does not possess a valid driving license.
'In late 2023, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced a review of fines for underage drivers under the RTA, but no concrete updates, action plans, or any updated policies have been offered,' Chong stated.
'Fines alone are insufficient to tackle this growing crisis; Malaysians need a conducive reform to tackle this issue.'
According to Chong, parents must take greater responsibility, and that it is no longer enough to claim ignorance or helplessness after an accident occurs, adding that parents who allow their children to drive, or fail to stop them, should be held accountable under existing laws.
'When there is clear neglect, they should be charged alongside their child. This is not about punishment for its own sake, but about fostering a culture of care, responsibility, and safety,' he continued.
'Children often ride without a licence because they believe they are capable or because no one stops them. Their reflexes are still developing, and their judgment is not fully formed.
'Allowing them on the road puts not only their lives in danger but also the safety of other road users. Driving is not a casual activity—it is a responsibility that requires maturity, training, and legal clearance.'
Underlying causes
It is, however, crucial to take into account the underlying causes leading to this issue, among them the lack of affordable public transport in rural and lower-income areas.
'In some parts of Shah Alam, transport costs can reach RM200 for a short trip, which is unaffordable for many families,' Chong revealed.
'These challenges must be addressed through better infrastructure, accessible transport, and targeted financial support. However, they do not excuse breaking the law or putting children at risk.
'Education should be part of the solution. Schools must actively monitor how students get to school and reinforce road safety messages.
'Programmes like buddy systems can also help guide vulnerable students back onto the right path. For children who break the law, community service could be a constructive form of accountability.
'Malaysia must act decisively. Our laws, institutions, and families all have a role to play in keeping Malaysians safe. We must act now to prevent the loss of more innocent lives.' ‒ June 23, 2025
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