THE Transport Ministry will not reveal the status and condition of the 45 mobile automated enforcement system (AES) cameras located along highways and major roads nationwide, but will maintain their presence to act as a deterrent to traffic offenders.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said he was aware of reports that most of the cameras were not actually functioning, but reiterated that they served as reminders for motorists not to exceed the speed limit.

“The function of the cameras is more to educate and remind drivers to adhere to the road laws, and not to fine them,” he told reporters in Putrajaya today.

“I cannot say if they are working or not. I know what is going on, and the cameras will remain in their location.”

The Malaysian Insight reported earlier this month that only four out of the 45 mobile AES cameras on Malaysian highways are currently in working condition.

The Road Transport Department took over the operations and maintenance of the cameras last September.

The department also rebranded the AES to AWAS to reflect a new focus of reminding drivers to be more careful, rather than being punitive.

As part of that restructuring exercise, RTD reintroduced the demerit point system where drivers will be punished for breaking traffic laws, including running red lights and driving over the speed limit.

However, the restructuring exercise has not taken off due to lack of expertise at RTD to calibrate, maintain and use the cameras.

Ministry sources said the four working cameras are at Km17 Jalan Gua Musang-Kuala Krai and three along the East Coast Highway. – June 14, 2019.