The government isn’t ruling out the possibility of installing dashboard cameras, or dashcams, in law enforcement vehicles including that of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) in the near future.
Deputy Transport Minister Hasbi Habibollah said the ministry was ready to hold discussions with other agencies to ensure the move was legal and could be used as evidence in court.
“We are aware that there are countries we can take inspiration from, like the United Kingdom, France and Russia, but countries like Austria don't allow it and Switzerland does not encourage it because it violates private rights.”
“However, the use of these cameras is beneficial as they can help conduct an investigation, so we will look into how this can be implemented in accordance with the law,” he said.
Hasbi, who is also Limbang MP, told Parliament today (November 30th) that for now, there are no plans to make it mandatory to install dashcams in law enforcement vehicles.
He said the matter would need to be scrutinised, as the ministry currently has no specifications at the local or international level on how the move can be implemented.
“According to the ministry, there is no restriction for any party, either privately or commercially, to install the camera. However, it should not involve modifying or affecting the function of the existing security system, as well as not distracting one’s focus while driving," he said.
What do you think about the move?
by Kyle Roshen Jacob
