Introduction
In 2020, The Royal Malaysia Police (“PDRM”) announced that the offence of using mobile phones whilst on the road is a non-compoundable offence, and offenders are required to make a compulsory court appearance to settle their fines.
The offence is governed under r 17A of the Road Traffic Rules 1959, which penalises offenders for a fine up to RM1,000 or imprisonment up to 3 months. Prior to this, the offence was once a compoundable offence, that is to mean, fines issued can be instantly settled right away by making payment.
Recently, upon several verification calls with the relevant authorities involved and court visits, the RWC team writes to confirm the above that as of early October 2023, the offence is now once again a compoundable offence and court appearances are no longer compulsory should you pay the fine right away.
How to pay for these summons now?
Though no official notices have been issued as of this date, summons under this offence are compoundable at a rate of RM300 for the first time offenders.
According to the authorities, offenders can now make the relevant payment either at the Kaunter Bayaran Saman PDRM at any District Police Headquarters or online payment via the MyBayar PDRM website.
It is worth noting that these payments can only be made anytime at least one (1) week before the prescribed court hearing date, failing which offenders will then need to attend Court to settle their fines instead.
Are offenders still required to attend Court?
Once payment is made as above and the payment receipt is issued, offenders are no longer required to attend Court. However, should anyone miss the chance to pay ahead and the date of hearing altogether, a warrant of arrest can be issued against them. You have been warned!
This reversion has allowed offenders to settle their fines expeditiously as early as receiving them rather than waiting for the hearing. Court appearances will also be reduced and make way for heavier penalised cases to be heard.
References
- https://soyacincau.com/2020/08/10/pdrm-polis-diraja-malaysia-compound-summons-handphone-driving/
- https://paultan.org/2023/11/06/phone-use-while-driving-now-a-compound-offence/
- https://www.carsifu.my/index.php/news/police-warn-drivers-dont-make-or-take-calls-while-driving-unless-with-hands-free-kit#:~:text=Under%20Rule%2017A%20of%20the,a%20car%20with%20a%20holder.
- https://www.jpj.gov.my/en/web/main-site/undang-undang-en/-/knowledge_base/law/summons-payment-method
