Malaysia minister in speeding row

A Mercedes costs 20 times the average Malaysian wage

By Jonathan Kent BBC correspondent in Kuala Lumpur

The chief minister of the Malaysian state of Melaka, Mohammed Ali Rustam, has called for the speed limit on Malaysian roads to be raised for the drivers of luxury cars.

He was speaking after agreeing to settle more than 20 summonses issued on his own two official vehicles.

But Malaysia's government wants to send a clear signal to VIPs and politicians that they are not above the law.

The country's deputy prime minister has ordered dozens of the country's rich elite, who between them have amassed thousands of unpaid motoring fines, to reach into their own pockets and pay up.

Playing by the rules?

Mr Mohammed says that speed limits slow down important people, and that the limit should be raised from 110 to 160km/h ( 68 to 100 mph) for the drivers of high-powered cars.

Deputy Prime Minister Badawi has little sympathy with the rich elite

He says it is not suitable for the likes of BMWs and Mercedes to drive slowly on highways.

Mr Mohammed admitted he was not aware of the 22 outstanding summonses issued to his two cars, because he leaves such matters to his drivers.

However, he agreed to have them settled immediately.

High-powered cars in Malaysia are largely the preserve of the wealthy.

High tariffs on imported vehicles mean that a typical Mercedes would cost the average Malaysian 20 years wages.

Yet there are thousands on the roads. Top Malaysians who have been given titles in recognition of their achievements often put official badges on their number plates to let other drivers know just how important they are.

But Malaysia's deputy prime minister, Abdullah Badawi, is signalling that he has little patience for the foibles of the privileged classes.

If, as expected, he takes over as prime minister next October, Malaysia's high and mighty will have to remember to play by the rules.