A former express bus driver and his girlfriend, who went viral for engaging in a dangerous “lap sitting” act while the bus was in motion, have both been sentenced to jail by the Magistrate’s Court in Jasin, as reported by Harian Metro.
Both pleaded guilty in court
The driver, 36-year-old Arif Fahmi Abd Salam, was sentenced to 12 months’ jail, while his 21-year-old acquaintance, Nur Adila Najwa Ilham Ameerrullah, received six months’ jail.
Both were also fined RM5,000 each. If they fail to pay the fine, they will serve an additional two months in jail.
The court also disqualified both of them from holding or applying for a driving licence for five years.
They pleaded guilty after the charges were read before Magistrate Mazana Sinin.
The incident took place at around 7.30pm on April 12 at the Bemban Rest and Service Area exit along the North-South Expressway (southbound), within the Jasin district.
Additional charge for insulting passenger
In the same proceedings, Nur Adila also faced an additional charge for verbally insulting a 44-year-old female passenger on the bus, causing disturbance.
The offence was said to have taken place earlier at around 6pm on the same day and location.
She was charged under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955, which carries a fine of up to RM100 upon conviction.
In mitigation, Arif Fahmi asked for a lighter sentence, saying he had already lost his job after the video went viral and no longer had a source of income.
He also said he still needs to cooperate with the Land Public Transport Agency and the Road Transport Department in relation to the case. He added that this was his first offence and acknowledged the impact of his actions.
Prosecution pushed for heavier punishment
The prosecution argued for a heavier sentence, pointing out that the offence falls under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which allows for up to five years’ jail and a maximum fine of RM15,000.
They stressed that the couple’s actions had caused public alarm and raised concerns over the safety of public transport, especially as 27 passengers were on board at the time.
Final sentencing
After hearing both sides, the court sentenced Arif Fahmi to 12 months’ jail and a RM5,000 fine.
Nur Adila was sentenced to six months’ jail and a RM5,000 fine. She was also fined RM100, or 14 days’ jail in default, for the additional offence under the Minor Offences Act.
