Netizens have paid tribute to the late Ms Lee even as others called for more action to be taken against the errant driver.
“This is terrible, a mother’s nightmare. Condolences to her family and may she rest in peace. I hope the driver is held responsible,” said X user @ladymissazira.
Another X user @sayapkiri188 said that drivers that cause serious accidents such as the one in Penang deserve to be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law, but added that they should also provide compensation to victims’ families.
X user @parvin_84, meanwhile, shared his condolences and hoped that the victim’s mother “is doing well”.
“That’s heartbreaking to just read. Can’t imagine hearing someone you love say that while you’re completely helpless,” he wrote, in reference to Ms Lee’s final phone call.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister Anthony Loke had weighed in on the accident and stated that the operating licence of the trailer company involved could be suspended if it is found non-compliant with safety regulations.
“The Land Public Transport Agency, together with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) will conduct an audit of the company. If they fail or are found non-compliant with safety measures, their license will be suspended,” he said on Nov 14 after an event by the Malaysian Maritime Institute, as quoted by local news agency Bernama.
“This is a tragic and regrettable event that should never have occurred and action must be taken.”
Mr Loke added that his ministry is committed to a comprehensive investigation to determine whether the cause of the accident was related to a technical issue, a defective container or negligence in securing it. He has also directed the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research to conduct an immediate and thorough inquiry.
The 51-year-old driver has been remanded for four days to aid investigations under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless driving, according to local media.
If convicted, the driver could face a prison sentence of up to 10 years, a fine of up to RM50,000 (US$11,248) and a driving licence disqualification for a period of 10 to 20 years.
Mr Loke also expressed disappointment over the driver’s insensitive behaviour, as local media reported that the man had appeared at Bukit Mertajam Magistrate’s Court and made a peace sign to the media. Mr Loke said the gesture demonstrated a lack of sympathy for the victim’s family who are still grieving.
Assistant Commissioner Helmi Aris – the Seberang Perai Tengah District Police Chief – confirmed on 13 Nov that urine screening tests on the driver have returned negative for alcohol.
