High-tech gadgets being studied to improve driving test integrity, says Dr Wee

KUALA LUMPUR: A feasibility study on the use of high-tech gadgets to improve the integrity of driving tests is currently being conducted, says Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

He said that CCTV and sensors in the vehicles could be used during driving tests to avoid possible corruption.

"At the same time, when they are in the (driving) circuit to park, all the poles will be equipped with sensors and cameras.

"This is to verify the issue of integrity as there have been claims that you can give bribes when taking a driving test.

"This will be unfair if there is no such evidence. With the use of such technology, all the information can be controlled by the control centre and integrity can finally be upheld," he said in reply to a supplementary question from Datuk Zakaria Mohd Edris (PN-Libaran) during Question Time.

Zakaria had asked the ministry to explain what were the government's efforts to improve the use of artificial intelligence and other technology at the driving schools post-Covid-19.

Dr Wee also said that the Ministry was also looking at the use of automation in recording certain parts of the tests.

"It means that we can record and play back and look at what has transpired when there are allegations," said the Minister.

He added that in terms of the theory test, there are about 73,000 individuals who are waiting to take the theory test.

"And we realise that integrity is very important. They will attend a six-hour lecture, and the next day they need to be tested. And we see the process needs to be monitored online without us compromising on integrity. We will look at all the best methods to help facilitate the people," said Dr Wee.

To the initial question, he said the Ministry has granted a three-month moratorium until Nov 30 on the renewal of driving institutes (ILP) operators’ permits whose expiry falls between January and September this year.

He said an extension was also given to Learners Drivers Licence (LDL) holders to renew their license from November this year until June 30, 2022.

"The extension period has been given to allow those who could not follow the usual process to obtain a license and sit for a driving test due to closure of driving institutes, which led to a backlog of about 462,000 candidates," he said.

Dr Wee said that the extension will also allow driving institutes to schedule driving tests for all candidates with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and by following all the set standing operating procedures.