KUALA LUMPUR: The Mat Rempit menace remains a stubborn social ill despite repeated enforcement efforts, and tackling it will require more than punitive measures, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said illegal street racing is not merely a law and order issue but a symptom of deeper social challenges that demand long-term, holistic solutions.
“Enforcement must continue, but we cannot rely on punitive measures alone," he said when contacted on Friday (Oct 3).
Lee said among the measures that could assist in addressibg the problem was holistic intervention.
"This measure can be utilised by understanding the socioeconomic backgrounds of Mat Rempit, many of whom are school dropouts or unemployed youth.
"Community engagement and awareness campaigns are important as well," he said.
He said the government should also look into alternative outlets such as affordable racing circuits and go-kart tracks for motorsport enthusiasts to pursue their passion safely.
"Provide these youths employment and skills training through vocational programmes, apprenticeships and entrepreneurship opportunities," he added.
Lee described the Mat Rempit problem as “a cry for help” from disillusioned youths who feel excluded from mainstream society.
"If we continue to respond only with enforcement, the problem will persist,” he said.
“A more comprehensive, human-centred approach is urgently needed to turn these young lives around — for their sake and for the safety of society," he said.
