DISCUSSIONS are ongoing in the Transport Ministry on how to deal with automated enforcement system (AES) cameras on Malaysian highways, of which almost 90% are not in working condition.

“This matter is being discussed at the ministry level on whether we should just replace all these cameras or do we repair them. We have not decided on what action to take on the matter,” a source told The Malaysian Insight.

The Malaysian Insight reported earlier today that only four out of the 45 mobile automated enforcement system (AES) cameras on Malaysian highways are currently in working condition.

They said 41 cameras supposedly operational under the awareness automated safety system (AWAS) have been out of order for some time now.

When asked about the matter today, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said he was aware of the situation but would only be issuing an official statement after the Hari Raya holidays.

“Wait for my statement. Today is Hari Raya. I will be issuing a statement after Hari Raya,” he said.

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 5, 2019.