BUKIT MERTAJAM: The lorry driver involved in a fatal container incident last week has been denied bail after he was charged in the Magistrate's Court today and faces up to 10 years in jail if found guilty.
Marhizan Johari, 51, pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to him before Magistrate Mohd Harith Mohd Mazlan at the Bukit Mertajam Court today.
The father of three is accused of recklessly driving a trailer, resulting in the death of 21-year-old Lee Zi Rou.
The deadly accident occurred on Jalan Kebun Sireh in Bukit Mertajam on November 13.The accused was charged under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which carries a jail term of up to 10 years and a fine between RM20,000 to RM50,000.
The accused also faces a ban on driving for at least five years if convicted.
Road accidents have been increasing steadily in recent years in Malaysia with the public urging for tough punishments against careless and dangerous drivers.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Zulfadzly Hassan represented the prosecution, while the accused did not have a lawyer.
Magistrate Mohd Harith denied Marhizan bail, citing the extensive attention the tragedy has received.
The court fixed January 24, next year for the submission of reports from the Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom), medical examinations, and a post-mortem report.
The suspect was seen making a "peace" sign when he was brought to court for a four-day remand order on November 14. His action sparked anger among the victim's family.