A late-night accident suspected to have stemmed from an illegal street race in Seremban, Malaysia, has left one person hospitalised in the intensive care unit (ICU), while a 19-year-old driver faces serious consequences for reckless driving.
The dramatic incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday (7 July) at around 2.55am along a road in Negeri Sembilan. The teenager, behind the wheel of a Proton Satria, is believed to have been involved in an unauthorised race when he lost control of his car. Eyewitness videos that have since gone viral show the vehicle flipping over and crashing violently into another car carrying five people.
Vehicle Overturns, Slams Into Another Car Carrying Five Passengers
According to Seremban District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mohamad Hatta Che Din, the crash took place after a car in front of the Proton Satria braked suddenly. The teen allegedly could not respond in time, resulting in the vehicle hitting a lamppost, crashing into a tree, and careening into the opposite lane.
There, it collided with a Perodua Axia, which was carrying five passengers. The crash left one of the passengers seriously injured, requiring immediate ICU admission at Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital. The other passengers sustained minor injuries and were treated as outpatients.
Miraculously, the teen driver emerged with only minor injuries. Several bystanders rushed to the scene and helped to flip the Proton Satria back onto its wheels, allowing emergency responders to reach the injured more easily.
Teen Driver Remanded, Faces Charges for Reckless Driving
The young driver has since reported himself to the authorities and was remanded for three days to assist with ongoing investigations. A urine test was conducted and returned negative for drug use.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 42(1) of Malaysia’s Road Transport Act 1987, which covers reckless and dangerous driving. If convicted, the teenager could face steep fines, driving disqualification, or even imprisonment.
Public Outrage Grows Over Illegal Racing & Youth Recklessness
The incident has reignited debate in Malaysia over the growing trend of illegal street racing among youth, particularly in quieter towns like Seremban. Many netizens expressed outrage, with some calling for stricter enforcement and heavier penalties for such offences.
Medical experts have also highlighted the rising cost of ICU treatment and road accident compensation, urging drivers and their families to ensure they are adequately insured.
As investigations continue, public safety groups are reminding motorists—especially young drivers—that high-speed thrills come at a high price, not just for themselves, but for innocent road users around them.