Transport ministry welcomes feedback to improve AES, says Liow

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will not force the Automated Enforcement System (AES) down the rakyat's throats, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

"We welcome the feedback and suggestions from the public so that we can do better," he told reporters at Wisma MCA on Tuesday, adding that he has directed the Road Transport Department to conduct a survey.

Liow pointed out that traffic fatalities were a main concern of the ministry, with almost 7,000 road-related deaths in more than 500,000 traffic accidents every year.

"We want to implement AES because it is an effective ways to reduce traffic accidents in the country," he said.

He said he has received many feedback from road users, admitting that they would slow down whenever they see an AES camera.

"Areas with AES installed have recorded a reduction in traffic accidents.

Implementations in other countries have also shown that the system is effective," Liow said.

He also denied that the system was implemented as a means for the Government to get additional revenue.

"Unlike what many people claim, AES is not to punish the rakyat by issuing summons and fines. We want to save lives," he said.

The AES will also be complemented by the Kejara Demerits Point system, he said.

Liow revealed that those who accumulate 20 demerit points will have their licenses revoked.

"As for how many points to deduct for each traffic offence, we want feedback from the rakyat. We are willing to listen to their views," he said.