A lorry driver has pleaded not guilty in the Magistrate’s Court in Batu Pahat, Malaysia, to a charge of reckless driving that caused the death of a fifth former student. The incident occurred on October 25 on KM13.5 of Jalan Kluang-Batu Pahat at 7:04 am. The accused, Norazwan Ismail, 33, was charged under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act (APJ) 1987. This section specifies a maximum prison sentence of 10 years, a fine of up to RM50,000, and an endorsed driver’s license upon conviction for reckless driving.
The Deputy Public Prosecutor, Farah Wahidah Mohd Sharip, proposed a bail of RM15,000 for the accused, along with additional conditions such as suspending his license as per Section 41(5) APJ. However, the accused’s lawyer, S. Thamarah, requested a lower bail amount due to Norazwan’s responsibilities of supporting two wives, two children, and his ailing parents. The defense lawyer also appealed that the license should not be suspended as driving a lorry is the accused’s primary source of income.
Considering the arguments presented, Magistrate Nurasidah A. Rahman granted bail for Norazwan at RM8,000 with one surety. The bail was granted under the condition that the accused reports to the nearest police station once a month until the case is resolved and hands over his passport to the court. The next court date for mention of the case and submission of documents is set for November 30.
The incident involved a motorcyclist named Shahrunizam Mohd Shamsul, 17, who was on his way to SMK Sri Gading when the lorry made a U-turn. As a result, the motorcyclist lost control and collided with the truck’s fuel tank, causing a small explosion. A 30-second video of the incident went viral on social media. The victim’s death led to the charges against Norazwan Ismail.
