GEORGE TOWN: A computer technician became the first person in Penang to be charged under the newly-gazetted Road Transport Act (Amendment) 2020 today, which carries heavier penalties for traffic offences.
Saw Yen Yew, 21, pleaded not guilty to a charge under Section 45A(1) for riding a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol exceeding the permitted limit of 50mg in 100ml of blood.
He accused on committing the offence on Lebuhraya Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu at 2.55am on Sunday.
The charge sheet read Saw's alcohol level was 125mg in 100ml of blood.
Prosecuting officer Inspector Erma Yanti Abdul Rahim requested the court to set bail at RM8,000.
Saw's counsel Mohd Ismail Mohamed mitigated for lower bail.
"My client is still young and this is his first offence. He just recently got a job," Mohd Ismail said.
Magistrate Rosnee Mohd Radzuan, however, set bail at RM10,000 with one surety and fixed Nov 27 for mention.
Saw's father was present in court to settle the bail.
It was reported that the newly-gazetted Road Transport Act (Amendment) 2020 came into force last Friday.
For the amendment to Section 45(a) which covers those in charge of a vehicle with an alcohol content above the prescribed limit, the first-time offender will be jailed not more than two years, fined RM10,000 to RM30,000 and licence disqualification of two years or more.
Repeat offenders will be sent to jail not more than five years, fined between RM20,000 and RM50,000 and licence disqualification of five years or more.