K Kelvin, 27, pleaded not guilty before magistrate Nurul Farha Sulaiman after the charge, framed under Section 44(1)(b) of the Road Transport Act 1987, was read out, Berita Harian reported.

According to the charge sheet, Kelvin, who was driving a Perodua Bezza, had an alcohol content above the legal limit when he caused the death of Naim Mullah Affandi.

The incident took place at about 1.25am along Jalan Temiang, near SK Temiang, in Seremban.

If convicted, Kelvin could be jailed up to 15 years and banned from driving for at least 10 years and fined up to RM100,000.

Deputy public prosecutor Nor Shafatihah Nor Azmi sought bail of RM60,000, citing the seriousness of the offence and the heavy penalties involved.

She said the accused posed a flight risk and also requested that his driving licence be revoked.

Defence counsel A Krishnaveni said the accused had previously been charged in the sessions court and was bailed by his mother, a single parent supporting four other children.

She requested a lower bail amount, adding that the bailor had given an undertaking to ensure the accused’s presence at all proceedings.

The court granted bail at RM5,000 with one local surety and ordered the immediate suspension of the accused’s driving licence. The case has been set for mention on Oct 16.