Aliff Asyraf Abu, 27, pleaded not guilty in the Kuala Lumpur magistrates’ court after the charge was read out in front of magistrate Amanina Mohamad Anuar, Sinar Harian reported.

The accused, who was charged under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, appeared in court wearing a neck and body brace.

According to the charge sheet, Aliff was alleged to have been behind the wheel of a four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle and had driven recklessly and dangerously, resulting in the death of all four members of the family.

The deceased were identified as P Milan Damani, 32, his wife C Tinisha, 31, and their two children Rihaan Ivaan Damani, 4, and Ishaan Ivaan Damani, 3.

If convicted, he faces a jail term of no less than five years and a maximum of 10 years, and a fine of between RM20,000 and RM50,000.

The conviction details will also be reflected on his driver’s licence and he will be disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence for a period of no less than five years from the date of conviction.

During the proceedings, deputy public prosecutor Siti Nursyuhada Abd Rauf suggested that the accused be allowed bail of RM15,000 with one surety.

However, lawyer Izzat Hasizan, who represented the accused, appealed for his client to be given minimum bail for cooperating throughout the investigation.

“This is the first time the accused has been charged in court and during the incident he was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” he said.

After hearing the application by both parties, the court allowed the accused bail of RM12,000 with one surety. His driving licence will be suspended until the case is completed.

The court has fixed April 28 for re-mention of the case.