Court sets RM8,000 bail for drunk 25-year-old who killed man helping injured motorcyclist
A 25-year-old BMW driver charged with causing a fatal accident while drunk has pleaded not guilty, citing responsibility for elderly parents in seeking lower bail.
The fatal accident occurred at 2.10 AM on April 13, along Kilometer 16 of the Johor Bahru–Kota Tinggi Road. Kok Zi Kang, 25, allegedly struck and killed 37-year-old food delivery rider Mohd Taufik Arif Sariff, who had stopped to assist an injured motorcyclist. Taufik was pronounced dead at the scene. The accused was reportedly driving a BMW530i while under the influence of alcohol.
Blood Alcohol Level Above Legal Limit
According to court documents, Kok’s blood alcohol content measured 76mg per 100ml of blood—26mg above Malaysia’s legal limit of 50mg/100ml. He was charged under Section 44(1)(b) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a fine up to RM100,000, and a driving ban upon conviction.
Additional Charge for Fake Plate
In addition to the DUI charge, Kok faces a separate charge under Section 108(3)(f) of the same act. He is accused of using a vehicle registration number that did not match the BMW he drove during the crash. This offence, allegedly committed at 4.30 AM at the Seri Alam district police station, could lead to five years in jail, a RM20,000 fine, or both, if found guilty.
Court Proceedings and Bail Dispute
During the April 16 hearing at the Johor Bahru Magistrate’s Court, Deputy Public Prosecutor Amirah Tasnim requested a RM25,000 bail for both charges. Conditions proposed included monthly police reporting, surrender of passport, and temporary suspension of Kok’s driving licence pending trial. Magistrate Nur Fatin Mohamad Farid presided over the case.
Defence lawyer Chuah Shyue Chien requested a lower bail, arguing that Kok, who earns RM4,000 monthly as a workshop worker, is the sole caretaker of his ageing parents. The court agreed to set bail at RM8,000 with one surety, while retaining all conditions requested by the prosecution.
The court scheduled the next case mention for May 19, 2025, when document submissions are expected. Kok remains free on bail as the legal proceedings continue, while the family of the deceased awaits justice. The case has sparked broader public concern over drink-driving and road safety enforcement in Malaysia.
This case underscores the growing urgency of addressing reckless driving in Malaysia. For residents across Johor, Singapore, and the region, the tragedy raises questions about road safety, justice, and accountability. Strengthening enforcement and promoting responsible driving remain critical to prevent further loss of life on Southeast Asia’s roads.
Sources: World od Buzz (2025), Malay Mail (2025)
Keywords: Fatal DUI Johor, BMW Drunk Driving, Road Transport Act, Mohd Taufik Death, Kok Zi Kang
