KUALA LUMPUR - The ‘diyat’ mechanism as a Syariah-based compensation should be explored as an instrument of justice for the family of Amirul Hafiz Omar, who was killed in a suspected drink-driving crash at Jalan Raya Barat, Klang, Selangor, yesterday, says Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan.
He said the rights of the victim’s heirs must not be overlooked and that the diyat approach should be given due consideration to ensure justice and proper protection for the bereaved family.
"I strongly condemn the tragic incident in Klang, which claimed the life of a father, Amirul Hafiz Omar, due to a driver believed to be intoxicated and positive for drugs. Driving under the influence not only violates the law but also endangers the lives of others.
"This incident is deeply saddening and represents a form of negligence that cannot be compromised with, as it involves the loss of an invaluable life,” he said in a Facebook post today.
He said that a discussion regarding the implementation of diyat was initiated on Feb 11 in Putrajaya, involving muftis, prominent figures, and experts under the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs).
He said the effort was aimed at ensuring justice and protecting the rights of heirs, as well as supporting the implementation of diyat.
Meanwhile, he welcomed the statement by the Transport Ministry, which was drafting amendments to Section 44 of the Road Transport Act 1987 to require offenders to pay compensation to victims’ families in addition to imprisonment.
"May justice be upheld, and may this incident serve as a reminder to all road users. May the soul of the late Amirul Hafiz Omar be placed among the righteous,” he said.
Yesterday, South Klang District Police chief ACP Lim Jit Huey said a motorcyclist was killed after being hit by a car driven by a person under the influence of alcohol and drugs in a crash on Jalan Raya Barat in Klang.
The incident, which occurred at about 11.40 am, resulted in the victim being flung onto the roof of another car and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A video recording of the accident also went viral on social media, showing a speeding car overtaking on a double line and crashing into a motorcycle, causing the rider to be tossed into the air before landing on another vehicle. - BERNAMA