Driver pleads not guilty to three charges over fatal crash that killed Maldivian student

The driver involved in the accident that killed a Maldivian student in Malaysia has pleaded not guilty to three charges filed against him in the Shah Alam Magistrate’s Court.

21-year-old Aminath Imilee Nazim died in a fatal crash on the night of the 4th of this month in Subang Jaya. Another Maldivian student, aged 22, sustained injuries in the incident.

The accused, 37-year-old Muhamad Syafiq Ibrahim, has been charged with causing death while driving under the influence of methamphetamine, causing injury under the same condition, and driving without due care and attention, which led to a collision with another vehicle.

Under Malaysia’s Road Transport Act, the first charge carries up to 15 years in prison and a fine between RM50,000 and RM100,000. The second charge carries up to 10 years in prison and a fine between RM30,000 and RM50,000. The third charge carries up to 12 months’ imprisonment and a fine between RM5,000 and RM10,000.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Alia Anissa Hairs Masnan initially proposed bail of RM10,000 for each charge. However, Syafiq’s lawyer, Rohan Singh, requested a reduction, stating that his client earns only RM2,000 a month as a driver. The magistrate set bail at RM9,000, with one surety.

The court also ordered Syafiq’s driving licence to be suspended until the case concludes. The next mention hearing is scheduled for 4 December, according to Malaysian media.

Malaysian police previously confirmed that Syafiq tested positive for methamphetamine and lost control of the vehicle before it overturned, trapping Imilee inside. She died at the scene.

Imilee’s funeral prayer was held in Malaysia on Tuesday.