Malaysian drivers are considered one of the worst drivers in the world.

The above opinion is held by foreigners who visit our country and had the chance to observe our drivers in action.

Even though we may not agree with the above statement, there might be an element of truth in it.

Malaysia’s death rate on the road per year total more than 7500.

United States of America annual deaths total only 300 per year.

Due to such disappointing and alarming deaths on the road, the government thus has decided to do something about it.

It was this decision that set up the Demerit System or also known as Sistem Kejara.

The above involves 2 categories of drivers only. There are:

1) C.D.L. or Competent Driver License holders.

2) The “P” or Probationary drivers.

And what about “L” drivers?

“L” driver, being temporary license holders are exempted from the system.

The Demerit System revolves around A.P.J. 35, 35a, 37 and 38.

Drivers are also penalized under this system for committing traffic offences issued by the Police and Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) and fines imposed by the court authorities.

Why in the first place did the authorities set up this system?

The Demerit System was evolved to:

i) Minimise road accidents.

ii) Increase the awareness of drivers concerning road safety.

iii) To ensure that all drivers follow road regulations and rules.

iv) Create drivers who are discipline, responsible and considerate.

v) To take action against drivers that commit traffic offences.

With the introduction of the Demerit System, a system of tabulation of points was created at Putrajaya.

Drivers who achieve 15 demerit points the first time, will have their license suspended for 6 months.

Those who achieved 15 demerit points for the second time will have their license suspended for 12 months.

15 or more points accumulated for the third time will have their license suspended a further 12 months (within a 5 year duration).

Any driver, whose C.D.L. is suspended, will be prohibited from driving or attempting to secure a license for any class of vehicle during the period of suspension.

For drivers holding “P” license, those who obtain 10 demerit points will have their license canceled.

With regards to refresher courses organized by the Tuan Pengarah or Director for drivers who have had their licenses withdrawn, a first time offender attending this course will have 4 weeks deducted and those attending it for the 2nd time, will have 8 weeks deducted.

Bonus points will also be awarded.

For C.D.L. holders, who receive less than 15 demerit points, an accumulate no further demerit points 24 months following, 7 points will be set aside.

Penalty for drivers who are caught driving during the suspension period, drivers whose license was supposed to be suspended or canceled will face a fine of RM2000 or 6 months imprisonment.

The second section of the demerit point system will go on to explain to you regarding points which would be accorded to drivers who commit traffic offences.

These points will eventually be tabulated and finally determine whether or not a driver’s license will be suspended or banned.