Truck driver in fatal container accident in Penang demands trial for reckless driving

BUKIT MERTAJAM – A truck driver involved in a fatal container accident in Penang has been charged with reckless driving under the Road Transport Act 1987.

Marhizan Johari, 51, pleaded not guilty to the charge during his appearance before Magistrate Mohd Harith Mohd Mazlan at the Bukit Mertajam District Court on November 18.

He is accused of dangerously driving a trailer along Jalan Kebun Sireh in Bukit Mertajam at around 9.30am on November 13, killing 21-year-old Lee Zi Rou.

The court did not grant bail, citing public interest concerns raised by Deputy Public Prosecutor Zulfadzly Hassan, who noted that Marhizan had shown no remorse and reportedly made a “peace sign” when he was brought before the judge earlier this week brought.

In the accident, which occurred on Jalan Bukit Tengah, Marhizan lost control of the trailer during a left turn. The container overturned and crushed Ms Lee’s vehicle.