Cheng Kuan Poh fined in Johor after kicking Malaysian couple’s car in Skudai road rage
A Singaporean man has been fined RM9,100 (S$2,760) by a Johor Bahru magistrate after a road rage incident involving car damage and offensive gestures went viral on social media.
Viral Altercation Ends in RM9,100 Fine
Cheng Kuan Poh, a 40-year-old Singaporean and human resources manager, pleaded guilty in a Johor Bahru court on June 12 to two charges following a road rage incident in the Tun Aminah area of Skudai, Johor. He was fined RM4,300 for mischief and RM4,800 for insulting the modesty of others—amounting to RM9,100 or S$2,760. Cheng admitted to kicking another vehicle during a heated exchange, resulting in visible damage.
What Happened on June 7
According to the North Johor Bahru District Police, a Malaysian couple lodged a police report on June 7 after Cheng, driving a Singapore-registered Toyota Altis, repeatedly honked at them while they were in a BMW. The altercation escalated when Cheng exited his car and kicked the couple’s vehicle. The incident occurred at around 2.39pm near Sutera Mall.
Shortly after the report, videos of the altercation circulated widely online. One video showed the dented front right side of the Malaysian couple’s car, while others captured Cheng arguing with the couple and physically lashing out at the vehicle. The clips were posted on Facebook by user Vicky Sing and have garnered nearly 400,000 views and over 1,400 comments.
Arrest and Court Proceedings
Cheng was arrested by Johor police on June 8, a day after the incident. Police confirmed that he had no prior criminal record and tested negative for drugs. He was held in remand until his court appearance on June 12. Magistrate Suhaila Shafiuddin handed down the fines after Cheng pleaded guilty to both charges under Sections 426 and 509 of the Malaysian Penal Code.
The charges carry possible jail terms—up to three months for mischief and up to five years for insulting modesty—but Cheng was spared imprisonment. In court, he requested leniency, citing a clean record, a modest income of S$2,000 per month, and responsibility for his elderly parents.
Legal Implications and Public Response
Section 426 of Malaysia’s Penal Code penalizes damage to property, while Section 509 covers verbal or gestural insult. Johor Bahru North police chief Balveer Singh confirmed the legal basis for the investigation. The seized evidence and viral spread of the footage added pressure for swift legal action.
The incident has sparked debate over conduct by foreign drivers in Malaysia, especially with frequent cross-border travel between Singapore and Johor. Although no injuries were reported, the visible damage and public insult drew widespread condemnation.
This case highlights the importance of responsible behavior when driving abroad, particularly for Singaporeans in Malaysia. It serves as a stark reminder of how quickly minor road disputes can escalate into international legal cases, especially in the age of viral media. Both Singaporean and Malaysian authorities appear keen to maintain law and order amid rising cross-border travel.
Sources: Straits Times (2025) , CNA (2025)
Keywords: Singaporean Driver, Johor Bahru Incident, Cheng Kuan Poh, Road Rage, Car Damage, Viral Video
