‘Dashcams will not be compulsory’

KUALA LUMPUR – The government does not intend to make compulsory the installation of dashcams in privately-owned or company-owned vehicles.

Deputy Transport Minister Hasbi Habibollah (Limbang-GPS) told Dewan Rakyat today that the government will not prevent any party from voluntarily installing dashcams.

“However, the installation of the dashcams cannot be modified or obstruct the existing security systems in the vehicle.

“In fact, the government is also aware that the use of dashcams help with investigations by enforcement agencies,” he said.

Hasbi said one of the main reasons the government did not make dashcams mandatory was because there are no international standards set for such installations.

He said there are some countries that encourage dashcam installation, such as the United Kingdom and Europe, but there are some countries that banned it due to privacy concerns.

“Without a clear legal provision and rules, I am worried that any behavior recorded will not be used in future suits, court or legal proceedings.

“This matter will cause the public to blame the government for mandating the use of a piece of equipment that cannot be used in court.”

He said the government will hold discussions with the enforcement authorities from time to time on the use of dashcams in vehicles. – The Vibes, November 30, 2020