Tipsy After Night Out? Call the Tow Truck

On July 15, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong proposed amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) that will both lower the threshold for a person to be considered driving under the influence when it comes to alcohol while at the same time increasing penalties for those caught doing so.

Under the proposed amendments, those convicted of causing death due to dangerous or reckless driving will face up to 20 years of jail time, as well as a fine of not less than RM20,000.

Malaysia’s current blood alcohol content (BAC) level stands at 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood or 107 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of urine. Wee said these could be lowered to 22 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, 50 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood or 67 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of urine. Based on Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) calculator, this is equivalent to not more than 1 glass of wine for the average male or female.

To avoid the hefty fine and dire consequences, you would have to call a friend, family member or e-hailing services such as Grab or MULA. These are not ideal options as you would have to bear the brunt of inconveniencing people and leave your precious car behind.

Thanks to an enterprising Penangite, you will now be able to take a ride home together with your car via a tow truck. According to TheStar, it will cost you RM100 to RM120, which is exactly the same as when your car breaks down. Considering the ramifications, it may just be a small sum.

So if you feel like having more than a glass of wine, just give Chan Brothers a call for your own, others and also your automobile’s safety. Drink responsibly!