PUBLISHED ONApril 01, 2026 8:37 AMBYSean LerThe 28-year-old male driver who allegedly drove while under the influence of alcohol and drugs which caused the crash that killed Amirul Hafiz Omar, 33, was charged with murder on Wednesday (April 1).
R. Saktgaanapathy is accused of causing the death of Amirul at around 11.45 am along Jalan Raya Barat on Sunday.
Malaysian media reported that he was unrepresented and nodded to indicate the charge when it was read out to him.
No plea was recorded as murder charges fall under the jurisdiction of the High Court.
Amirul's wife, Nor Nadia Abdul Majid, was present in court to observe the proceedings.
Sinar Harian reported that she was relieved that Saktgaanapathy has been charged with murder.
Earlier on Sunday, South Klang police chief Lim Jit Huey said that the accused is being investigated for dangerous driving causing death.
The offence carries a maximum penalty of 15 years imprisonment and a fine of up to RM100,000 (S$32,000).
But with the murder charge, Saktgaanapathy can be sentenced to death or imprisonment of up to 40 years.
If the death penalty is not imposed, he will also receive up to 12 strokes of the cane.
Separately, he pleaded guilty to a charge under the Dangerous Drugs Act for self-administering benzodiazephine and tetrahydocannabinol (key ingredient in cannabis).
Benzodiazephine is used for treating anxiety and related mental health conditions and are known to slow down brain activity.
The offence carries a fine of up to RM5,000 or jail of up to two years.
Saktgaanapathy will appear in court again on June 3.
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