Electronic driving test system to be implemented at year end, says Loke

 

KUALA LUMPUR: The electronic driving test system is expected to be rolled out nationwide at the end of this year, says Anthony Loke.

The Transport Minister said there are procedures and details that need to be refined before the e-testing system, which is still currently under proof of concept (POC) stage, can be implemented.

“There is no problem with the concept because we have been through the phase but there are several policies and procedures that we need to set and refine.

“I have discussed with the Transport Ministry secretary-general on the matter so it can be implemented soon, hopefully at the end of this year.

“So after this, we can decide, gazette the changes on the procedure and then implement the system at all driving institutes across the country.

“There are several driving schools that are prepared to implement the system. Currently, there are five driving institutes - one each in Johor, Penang and Kedah as well as two driving institutes in Selangor - that have the e-testing system but they are all at the POC stage,” he said at a press conference after launching the Malaysian Driving Institute Association (Pima) 23rd annual general assembly at Ibis Hotel here on Saturday (July 22).

Once the e-testing system is approved for implementation, Loke said the ministry would not impose driving schools to implement the system from a selected vendor.

“We are not going to tell the driving schools there is only one vendor to implement the e-testing system because that could raise elements of monopoly.

“So we decided not to choose any specific vendors, as long as the system adheres to the specifications and standards set by JPJ, the institutes and schools are free to choose.

“For example, Pima has its own system for members to use or they are free to choose another vendor. But when the ministry audits the system, it must follow the standards,” he said, adding that the e-testing system will not be made mandatory for students and driving schools.

Loke added that the system could reduce unethical practices such as "Lesen Kopi" or driving licences obtained through corrupt means.

“This e-testing system would protect both JPJ officers and driving schools from being accused of being involved in corruption.

“Students would also be protected where they are allowed to review their tests when they fail,” he said. - Star