Segamat police chief Jumazanzahir Chek Ismail said the 29-year-old suspect, who tested positive for drugs, will be charged in the Segamat magistrates’ court, reported Berita Harian.

“The four-day remand order issued against the suspect ends today. The magistrates’ court has allowed it to be extended for another two days starting today,” he said.

Jumazanzahir said police have received instructions from the Johor public prosecutor’s office to charge the suspect with murder under Section 302 of the Penal Code, and not Section 44(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

Section 44(1) covers the offence of causing death while driving under the influence. It provides for penalties of 10 to 15 years in jail, and a fine of between RM50,000 and RM100,000, upon conviction.

A murder charge under Section 302 of the Penal Code is punishable by death or 30 to 40 years in prison and a minimum 12 strokes of the rotan, upon conviction.

Jumazanzahir said prosecution for a drug consumption charge under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 will begin after police receive the pathology report.

Johor police chief Ab Rahaman Arsad previously said the accident occurred when a trailer crashed into the rear of a van carrying the victims.

The van lost control before entering the opposite lane and collided with the front of a lorry.

Three of those in the van were pronounced dead at the scene from severe injuries.

They were identified as K Myakrishnan, 71, his wife, S Sevendai, 65, and van driver S Palamiandy, 75.

Two others, aged 18 and 22, were injured and are still receiving treatment at Hospital Segamat.