COMMENT | Put a stop to 'discount culture'

COMMENT | My friend was caught using his handphone while driving the other day. He was not compounded on the spot but instead was asked to attend court.

He tried reasoning with the authorities, explaining to them that he merely picked up his handphone to check on his GPS setting during a traffic jam when his car was idle.

However, he failed in his attempt and was fined RM1,000 in a magistrate's court.

Apparently, motorists are not even allowed to place their handphones on their lap, tap on the screen, or adjust the holder of their mounted handphones while driving.

In fact, motorists are also not allowed to pick up their handphones while waiting at a red light.

If found guilty, those charged can be fined up to RM1,000 or sentenced to a maximum three month’s jail.

Repeat offenders face stiffer penalties – second-time offenders can be fined up to RM2,000 and third-time offenders, RM3,000.

My friend admitted his guilt and paid his fine with no qualms. He did so not because...