Review AES, urge MPs

KUALA LUMPUR -- A number of Barisan Nasional (BN) and opposition members of parliament (MP) urged the government to review the implementation of the Automatic Enforcement System (AES) claiming it was a burden to road users.

The AES is a high-tech automatic camera system which is installed at identified accident prone locations aimed at reducing accidents and increasing the effectiveness of enforcement.

The matter was first raised by Sim Tong Him (DAP-Kota Melaka) during the 2013 Supply Bill debate at the Dewan Rakyat, here today.

"We know the AES is aimed at reducing accidents but its advisable to obtain the views of various parties first. We don't want it to be trap or just for profit," he said.

The first phase was implemented on Sept 23 after it was found that the two main violations committed were exceeding speed limits and jumping red lights.

Datuk Mohamed Aziz (BN-Sri Gading) added by hoping that the government would postpone implementing the AES.

"The system was postponed three times prior to this but we see it as more of a burden to the people after it was finally implemented. If possible we hope the government can nullify the 60,000 traffic offenders identified through the system," he said.

Whereas, Datuk Noraini Ahmad (BN-Parit Sulong) suggested that more warning signs be placed at the AES locations to encourage road users to be cautious.

Fong Po Kuan (DAP-Batu Gajah), voiced her support for Noraini's suggestion saying the AES should be reviewed to prevent causing undue stress to motorists.

"We're not encouraging people to speed but the implementation of the system must be reviewed so that it does not burden and put pressure on people," she said.

-Bernama