KOTA BARU: Kelantan police will intensify operations at identified hot spots frequented by illegal street racers, or Mat Rempit, ahead of the enforcement of tougher penalties from Nov 1.
Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said police would continue conducting operations to curb illegal racing and prevent the activity from disturbing the public.
He said the amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 would introduce heavier penalties, including imprisonment, for offences involving illegal street racing.
"Previously, offenders could face fines, but the prospect of imprisonment under the amended provisions Is expected to serve as a stronger deterrent.
"We hope the tougher penalties will make those involved think twice before engaging in illegal racing.
"Our aim is to prevent such activities and ensure the public can go about their daily lives without having to deal with problems caused by Mat Rempit," he said.
Yusoff said police would maintain continuous enforcement and work closely with other agencies, including the Road Transport Department, to tackle the problem.
He said cooperation among enforcement agencies was important to ensure effective action against illegal street racers and improve road safety.
On Oct 5, RTD senior enforcement director Datuk Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan had said tougher penalties, including imprisonment, for Mat Rempit activities are expected to come into force from Nov 1 following amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987.
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