The government of Malaysia just announced free highway tolls for two days for Christmas 2023! Here is what you need to know!
Malaysia : Free Highway Tolls For Christmas 2023!
On Thursday, 21 December 2023, Malaysia Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan announced free highway tolls for two days:
Saturday, 23 December 2023
Tuesday, 26 December 2023
The toll-free travel will apply to all types of vehicles travelling on all highways in Malaysia, except the toll plazas at the national borders in Johor:
the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) Toll Plaza
the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza
The toll-free period will begin at 12:01 AM and end at 11:59 PM on the two days – Saturday, 23 December 2023, and Tuesday, 26 December, 2023.
An estimated 2.1 million vehicles are expected to use the highways during the Christmas 2023 season, with the free toll costing the government RM20 million per day, for a total cost of RM40 million.
It is hoped that this toll waiver will reduce the burden on those who are planning to return to their home towns to visit their families and celebrate Christmas together.
This is in line with the intention of the unity government to help ease the burden of the people across the religious diversity and beliefs
Highway users should take advantage of this opportunity and plan their journeys as best as possible while observing the recommended travel time advisory schedule.
He said that the dates were chosen to avoid traffic congestion, and optimise logistics. He also advised highway users to observe the safety limits, signages, and regulations.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is offering up to 50% discount for selected traffic offences for just 3 days!
Find out how you can get the 50% discount on your traffic offences from PDRM!
PDRM Offers 50% Discount On Traffic Offences For 3 Days!
On 6 December 2023, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) announced a special 50% discount for selected traffic offences for just 3 days!
From 8 December until 10 December 2023, motorists will be able to get a 50% discount for selected traffic summonses at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium:
Date : Friday, 8 December until Sunday, 10 December 2023
Location : Tent no. 2, Bukit Jalil National Stadium (behind the main stage)
PDRM 50% Traffic Summons Discount For December 2023
This special PDRM offer only applies to traffic summonses issued in 2022 and earlier. It does not apply to traffic offences committed in 2023, or active warrants for court trials. This limited 50% discount offer also does not apply to:
summons for traffic accidents
court cases which involve arrest warrants or ongoing trials
non-compoundable offences, like driving without a licence, careless driving, expired driving licence, uninsured vehicle, etc.
Motorists who want to take advantage of this discount programme are advised to check their outstanding traffic summonses through the PDRM MyBayar website and/or mobile app before heading over to the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
Please note that you cannot get the discount by paying online. Unlike earlier online discount offers, this programme requires you to be physically present at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium between 8 to 10 December 2023.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Do traffic lights in Malaysia now have CCTV cameras to catch drivers crossing the white line?!
Take a look at the viral claims, and find out what the facts really are!
Claim : Traffic Lights Have CCTV To Catch Drivers!
People are sharing a photo of a JPJ (Road Transport Department) traffic offence fine issued to a driver called Koh Chip Wee.
They claim that he was fined after a CCTV camera at the traffic light caught him stopping his vehicle over the white line. This example warns motorists that they could be fined RM2,000 or jailed for up to 6 months for this offence:
It’s a RM 2K fine or 6 months jail for waiting across the white line at traffic lights monitored by cameras, the notices hv already started going out by post… Cheers
Other people are sharing the photo with this audio message of a man warning people that traffic lights in Kuantan, Pahang, now have CCTV cameras that are designed to catch motorists who stop over the white line.
Truth : Traffic Lights Do Not Have CCTV To Catch Drivers!
This is yet another example of FAKE NEWS circulating on WhatsApp and social media platforms, and here are the reasons why…
Fact #1 : You Can Be Fined For Stopping Over White Line
First, let me just confirm that this part is true – motorists may be fined up to RM2,000, or jailed for up to 6 months, if they are caught stopping any part of their vehicles on any zebra crossing, including crossing that unbroken white line at any traffic light.
Mana-mana individu yang melakukan kesalahan boleh dikenakan denda tidak melebihi RM2,000 atau dipenjarakan selama tempoh tidak melebihi enam bulan.
Any individual who commits an offense may be fined not exceeding RM2,000 or imprisoned for a period not exceeding six months.
In other words – this is a serious offence, with serious consequences. You must stop your vehicle before the unbroken white line at all traffic lights.
Most of us motorists never think about this. So this is a timely warning. Please SHARE this warning with your family and friends!
Fact #2 : Traffic Lights Currently Do Not Have CCTV Cameras
The traffic lights currently do not have any CCTV cameras installed to catch drivers crossing the white line, or committing any other traffic offences.
That device you see on many traffic lights these days is an active infra-red sensor. Such infra-red sensors are used to determine the presence of vehicles, for traffic control.
If the sensor does not detect the presence of a vehicle waiting, the traffic light for that lane may skip a turn to allow vehicles using other lanes to go through the junction for a longer period of time.
In the viral photo, the angle of the photo taken indicates that it was not taken by any camera attached to the traffic light. The photo was taken from behind the vehicle and even shows the traffic light itself.
Fact #3 : Driver Was Fined For Running A Red Light
The motorist in this case was not fined for stopping his vehicle over the white line at the traffic light.
If you look closely at the notice, you can see that he was actually fined for running a red light. In addition, he was only fined RM300 for the offence, not RM2,000.
Kesalahan : Gagal mematuhi isyarat merah pada isyarat lalulintas
Offence : Failed to obey red light at traffic light
Fact #4 : Only Known Traffic Light CCTV Camera Was A Test
The only known CCTV camera (with AI technology) that was installed for the purpose of catching traffic offences started operating in Miri on 4 July 2023.
This AI Violation Detection CCTV camera is designed to automatically monitor and record driver behaviour at the intersection, including:
collecting data on vehicle speed and details
automatically detecting and recording speeding vehicles
recording driver offences like using mobile phones, smoking, and not wearing seatbelts while driving
However, this CCTV camera with AI technology was installed as a proof-of-concept trial that will only last 6 months.
The trial period would be six months and the results will be presented to the ministry to decide on the next course of action.
It may be just a matter of time before such cameras are deployed in Malaysia, and other countries around the world. But right now, there really are no CCTV cameras installed at traffic lights to catch drivers committing traffic offences like stopping over the white line.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
These PDRM parking fine emails are scam emails. This was confirmed by PDRM itself.
On 7 August 2023, the Cyber Crime division of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) posted an alert warning motorists not to fall for the MyBayar scam.
These emails are designed to scare its victims into action. Hence, it offers a very cheap way to quickly “settle the problem”. However, if you take a breath, and analyse the email CAREFULLY, you will see many problems with it.
Letter is from PDRM : The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will never write to you by email.
Letter is in English : The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will never write to you in English.
Typo in the name : The fake email used My Bayar PDRM, instead of MyBayar PDRM.
Lack of name and personal details : The fake email refers generically to “Dear recipient“, without listing your full name and MyKad number.
Lack of vehicle details : The fake email doesn’t mention the vehicle make and plate number.
Lack of location details : The fake email does not mention where the offence occurred, or even when it occurred.
Fine is much too low : PDRM traffic fines are never as low as RM50. The cheapest fine is RM150 for Category 4 offences, but you can pay as low as RM70 within 15 days.
No such law : The fake email refers to the Road Traffic Act. There is no such act in Malaysia. The proper name is the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333).
No such section : If you look at the Malaysia Road Transport Act 1987 (PDF download), you will see that there is no such thing as Section 2016-691.
The email appears to be from My Bayar PDRM (typo in the name), but if you inspect the email address, you will see that it was sent by “in-to-no-reply@silverbackgames.xxx” or “hello@sooqr.com” or some other email address.
Obviously, this email did not originate from an official PDRM email address! This should immediately tell you that this is a fake or scam email!
If you click on the Pay My Fine link in the scam email, you will be taken to a fakeMy Bayar PDRM website (with the same typo in the name).
You may notice that you now have 7 days to pay the RM 50 fine, instead of just 5 days in the email. Odd, isn’t it?
Also odd is the fact that the page does not mention your name, your MyKad number, your vehicle type and model, or even its plate number! The page also doesn’t mention where the offence took place, or the time you were caught committing said offence.
Do NOT proceed after this point… This is a scam website!
But if you have itchy fingers, and click on the Pay The Fine button, you will be asked to pay for the RM50 fine using your debit or credit card.
Needless to say, PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT YOUR DEBIT / CREDIT CARD DETAILS!!!
If you provide these scammers with your debit / credit card details and TAC / OTP numbers, they will be able to charge ANY AMOUNT they want to your credit card, or withdraw ANY AMOUNT they want from your bank account!
It’s even worse if you are asked to log into your bank account to pay the fine. DO NOT DO THAT!
If you provide them with your bank login and password, as well as OTP/TAC number, these scammers will be able to transfer money out of your bank account!
Please note – this is a scam! This is a phishing attack to gain access to your credit card and/or bank account.
Regardless of how you get any notification from PDRM about any traffic offence you may have committed, you should always check the status through these official MyBayar PDRM options:
Please SHARE this warning with your family and friends!
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
The Inspector-General of Police just announced that PDRM will conduct roadblocks at strategic locations, from midnight onwards!
IGP : PDRM To Conduct Roadblocks From Midnight Onwards!
On Saturday, 12 August 2023, the Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain announced that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will conduct roadblocks at strategic locations nationwide, from midnight onwards!
He said that these roadblocks are part of ongoing efforts to prevent crime and ensure public safety through police omnipresence, and unrelated to the 2023 state elections.
This is part of our monthly routine to prevent crimes and is not related to the state elections. Our men will be stationed at various locations to ensure there are no untoward incidents.
At the same time, IGP Razarudin also urged supporters of political parties not to hold any victory convoys with their vehicles.
He also said that the police will increase its presence at state palaces and residences of the Yang di-Pertua to prevent disruptions at those locations.
PDRM conducted similar roadblocks were during the 15th General Elections in November 2022.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
PDRM is warning motorists not to fall for the MyBayar scam! Here is what you need to know about the MyBayar PDRM scam!
PDRM Warning : Watch Out For MyBayar Scam
On 7 August 2023, the Cyber Crime division of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) posted an alert warning motorists not to fall for the MyBayar scam.
The MyBayar PDRM scam starts with an official-looking email that warns motorists that they have been caught contravening the law, and offers a cheap RM50 fine if paid within 5 days:
Last notice of contravention before prosecution
Dear recipient,
We are writing to draw your attention to a recent traffic violation in Malaysian jurisdiction.
Our traffic enforcement staff have observed your vehicle parked in a no-parking zone. This contravenes section (no. 2016-691] of the Road Traffic Act.
As a result of this infringement, a fine of MYR 50 has been imposed. This fine must be paid within 5 days of the date of this notification to avoid further legal consequences.
Failure to pay the fine within the allotted time may result in legal proceedings being taken against you, which could lead to increased fines, penalties and the possible suspension of your driving license.
Many people who received the MyBayar PDRM email might be shocked to find out that they were caught committing a traffic violation, and then relieved that it was only RM50 if they paid quickly.
That’s how the scammers trap their victims – by offering a cheap RM50 fine, when we all know that fines for traffic offences are at least RM150, and can go all the way up to RM1,000!
Those who received this fake MyBayar PDRM email would be tempted to quickly pay the cheap RM50 fine, before it becomes a lot more expensive!
But if you take a closer look at the email, you will spot some problems with it:
Weird English : The email title of “Last notice of contravention before prosecution” is nonsensical.
Typo in the name : The fake email used My Bayar PDRM, instead of MyBayar PDRM.
Lack of name and personal details : The fake email refers generically to “Dear recipient“, without listing your full name and MyKad number.
Lack of vehicle details : The fake email doesn’t mention the vehicle make and plate number.
Lack of location details : The fake email does not mention where the offence occurred, or even when it occurred.
Fine is much too low : PDRM traffic fines are never as low as RM50. The cheapest fine is RM150 for Category 4 offences, but you can pay as low as RM70 within 15 days.
No such law : The fake email refers to the Road Traffic Act. There is no such act in Malaysia. The proper name is the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333).
No such section : If you look at the Malaysia Road Transport Act 1987 (PDF download), you will see that there is no such thing as Section 2016-691.
The email appears to be from My Bayar PDRM (typo in the name), but if you inspect the email address, you will see that it was sent by “in-to-no-reply@silverbackgames.xxx” or “hello@sooqr.com” or some other email address.
Obviously, this email did not originate from an official PDRM email address! This should immediately tell you that this is a fake or scam email!
If you click on the Pay My Fine link in the scam email, you will be taken to a fakeMy Bayar PDRM website (with the same typo in the name).
You may notice that you now have 7 days to pay the RM 50 fine, instead of just 5 days in the email. Odd, isn’t it?
Also odd is the fact that the page does not mention your name, your MyKad number, your vehicle type and model, or even its plate number! The page also doesn’t mention where the offence took place, or the time you were caught committing said offence.
Do NOT proceed after this point… This is a scam website!
But if you have itchy fingers, and click on the Pay The Fine button, you will be asked to pay for the RM50 fine using your debit or credit card.
Needless to say, PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT YOUR DEBIT / CREDIT CARD DETAILS!!!
If you provide these scammers with your debit / credit card details and TAC / OTP numbers, they will be able to charge ANY AMOUNT they want to your credit card, or withdraw ANY AMOUNT they want from your bank account!
It’s even worse if you are asked to log into your bank account to pay the fine. DO NOT DO THAT!
If you provide them with your bank login and password, as well as OTP/TAC number, these scammers will be able to transfer money out of your bank account!
Please note – this is a scam! This is a phishing attack to gain access to your credit card and/or bank account.
Regardless of how you get any notification from PDRM about any traffic offence you may have committed, you should always check the status through these official MyBayar PDRM options:
Please SHARE this warning with your family and friends!
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Please be warned – you still need a physical driving licence when you are driving overseas! Your digital driving licence is most likely not valid or legal overseas!
Fined Overseas For Not Having Physical Driving Licence!
In May 2023, two Malaysian men were fined for failing to produce their physical driving licences in Thailand.
Both men were stopped by police while riding motorcycles on car lanes in Phuket. When the Thai police officer asked for their driving licence, they showed their digital driving licences using the MyJPJ app.
However, the Thai police officer said that their digital driving licences were not valid, even though the men explained Malaysia adopted the digital driving licence in February 2023.
In the end, both men had to pay a compound at the police station for not having a valid driving licence.
Even though the incident occurred several months ago, the issue only went viral after the men posted their video in Twitter on 3 August 2023.
PSA : You Still Need Physical Driving Licence Overseas!
Please be warned that even though Malaysia has adopted the digital driving licence (e-LLM) since 10 February 2023, it is only valid in Malaysia, and not overseas!
In the future, other countries will likely accept digital driving licences, but until that happens, you still need to bring and use a physical driving licence while driving overseas.
On 5 August 2023, Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke commented on the two Malaysian men who were fined in Thailand for failing to produce a physical driving licence. He said that the digital licence is only valid in Malaysia.
He pointed out that the matter (of accepting digital licences) was subject to laws in that country, and the ministry has no authority to determine how laws in other countries are enforced.
He also said that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) will continue to issue physical driving licences, so those who wish to drive overseas should apply for one at JPJ branches when renewing their driving licence.
We have no stopped the issuance of physical copies of driving licences, so if they want to drive in a country that requires a physical licence then they can apply for it at RTD counters when renewing their licence.
– Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke
Physical Driving Licence Only Available In JPJ Branches
Truth be told – this was already mentioned when the digital driving licence was adopted in February 2023. This was what I pointed out back then:
JPJ will continue to offer the physical driving licence to motorists who still prefer it, or need one to drive overseas.
But understandably, many of us probably missed that part. Or forgot that foreign governments may not readily accept the new digital driving licence.
While I’m here, I should also point out that the physical driving licence is now available only at JPJ branches. This may be a bit of a hassle, since it used to be available in Pos Malaysia branches too.
But the good news is – you can now renew your driving licence for 10 years, with a 10% discount to boot! So this should be a once-in-a-decade hassle.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
PDRM is warning motorists not to stop their vehicles on any zebra crossing, or be subject to a fine of up to RM2,000, or 6 month’s jail!
PDRM Warning : It’s Illegal To Stop On Zebra Crossing!
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is warning motorists not to stop their vehicles on any zebra crossing, or be subject to a fine of up to RM2,000, or 6 month’s jail!
On 28 July 2023, PDRM’s Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department (JSPT) announced that it would initiate a nationwide operation to enforce traffic laws under Op Pematuhan Peraturan Lala Lintas (Traffic Regulations Enforcement Operation).
One of the operations it is now carrying out is to enforce Rule 38 of the Road Traffic Rules 1959, which prohibits motorists from stopping their vehicles on any zebra crossing, unless it is out of their control – they are blocked by other vehicles from moving out of the way, or if it is necessary to prevent an accident.
OP PEMATUHAN PERATURAN LALU LINTAS
Jabatan Siasatan Dan Penguatkuasaan Trafik (JSPT) Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) pada 28 Julai 2023 telah mengeluarkan satu kenyataan media berhubung pelaksanaan OP Pematuhan Peraturan Lalu di seluruh negara.
Salah satu daripada operasi yang dijalankan adalah Kaedah 38 Kaedah-Kaedah Lalu Lintas Jalan (LN166/1959) – Tidak Boleh Memberhentikan Kenderaan Di Lintasan, menyatakan bahawa ;
– Pemandu kenderaan tidak boleh menyebabkan kenderaan atau mana-mana bahagian kenderaannya berhenti di dalam kawasan lintasan melainkan sama ada dia dilarang daripada bergerak oleh keadaan yang diluar kawalannya atau jika perlu baginya untuk berhenti bagi mengelakkan kemalangan.
Here is the English translation:
TRAFFIC REGULATIONS ENFORCEMENT OPERATION
The Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) on 28 July 2023 issued a media statement regarding the launch of the Traffic Regulations Enforcement Operation throughout the country.
One of the operations carried out is Rule 38 of the Road Traffic Rules (LN166/1959) – Not Allowed To Stop Vehicles At Crossings, which state that;
– The driver must not cause the vehicle or any part of the vehicle to stop in the crossing area unless he is prohibited from moving by circumstances beyond his control or if it is necessary for him to stop to avoid an accident.
To be clear – all motorists – whether they are driving a car, a van, or riding a motorcycle, should not cross the white line. If any part of their vehicle crosses the white line, that constitutes an offence.
Pengguna jalan raya diingatkan untuk mematuhi peraturan lalulintas dan tidak berhenti melebihi garisan putih kerana perbuatan ini adalah salah satu punca berlakunya kesesakan lalu lintas, berlakunya kemalangan dan juga boleh mengganggu pengguna jalanraya yang lain.
Road users are reminded to obey traffic rules and not stop beyond the white line because this act is one of the causes of traffic jams, accidents and can also disturb other road users.
Fine / Jail If Caught Stopping On Zebra Crossing!
JSPT is also warning that motorists may be fined up to RM2,000, or jailed for up to 6 months, if they are caught stopping any part of their vehicles on any zebra crossing.
Mana-mana individu yang melakukan kesalahan boleh dikenakan denda tidak melebihi RM2,000 atau dipenjarakan selama tempoh tidak melebihi enam bulan.
Any individual who commits an offense may be fined not exceeding RM2,000 or imprisoned for a period not exceeding six months.
In other words – this is a serious offence, with serious consequences. Most of us motorists never think about this. So this is a timely warning. Please SHARE this warning with your family and friends!
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Is JPJ now installing AES CCTV cameras with AI technology to monitor what drivers do at traffic lights?!
Take a look at the viral photo, and find out what the facts really are!
Claim : JPJ Is Installing AES CCTV Cameras With AI Tech!
People are sharing a photo on WhatsApp and social media platforms, claiming that the Malaysia Road Transport Department (JPJ) has started installing AES CCTV cameras at with AI technology.
These new AES (Automated Enforcement System) CCTV cameras are apparently using artificial intelligence to monitor what drivers do at traffic lights, and catch them committing crimes like using their smartphone / mobile phone.
JPJ sudah bermula memasang CCTV A.I AES yang dapat merakam video apa yang kamu sedang buat di Traffik light… yang selalu main Henfon semasa menunggu lampu Hijau… sila berjaga jaga ya.. sekali kena saman jangan cakap tak bagi amaran pula..
JPJ has started installing CCTV A.I AES that can record video of what you are doing at the traffic light… who are always playing with their smartphones while waiting for the green light… please be careful.. once you get a summons, don’t say no one warned you..
Truth : JPJ Is NOT Installing AES CCTV Cameras With AI Tech!
This is yet another example of FAKE NEWS circulating on WhatsApp and social media platforms, and here are the reasons why!
Fact #1 : It Was Installed As Proof Of Concept Trial
First, let me just confirm that the JPJ has not initiated any widespread project to install CCTV cameras with artificial intelligence (AI) technology at traffic lights.
The camera was installed as a proof of concept trial, which was launched on Tuesday, 4 July 2023, as “Proof of Concept : AI Violation Detection CCTV“.
The viral photo was issued by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS), together with the official press release.
Fact #2 : Camera Was Only Installed In Miri
Only one AI Violation Detection CCTV camera was installed, and it was installed at the Jalan Merbau intersection facing the Bintang Megamall in Miri, Sarawak.
The Sarawak Ministry of Transportation (MOTS) specifically chose that location, because it was an accident-prone area.
Fact #3 : Trial Only Lasts For Six Months
This proof-of-concept trial is only set to last for six months, according to Sarawak Transportation Minister, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin:
The trial period would be six months and the results will be presented to the ministry to decide on the next course of action.
Fact #4 : CCTV Camera Monitors + Records Driver Behaviour
The AI Violation Detection CCTV camera is designed to automatically monitor and record driver behaviour at the intersection, including:
collecting data on vehicle speed and details
automatically detecting and recording speeding vehicles
recording driver offences like using mobile phones, smoking, and not wearing seatbelts while driving
The objective is to collect data on driver behaviour, traffic flow and volume in addition to vehicle colour, classification, model and make.
In addition, to collect data on the speed of travel and vehicle registration number, automatically detect and record vehicles exceeding the speed limit and record the offenses of drivers using mobile phones, smoking and not wearing seat belts while driving.
Data collected from the system will be analysed to gain a better insight into traffic behaviour, identify high-risk areas, as well as enable data-driven decisions to be made by the ministry and enforcement agencies to improve road safety.
Fact #5 : Such Cameras Are The Future
Even though this is just a time-limited trial run, automatic monitoring and reporting of traffic offences by AI-enabled CCTV cameras are the future, because they allow the police to better catch bad driving behaviour without requiring massive manpower.
As Dato Sri Lee shared, the AI Violation Detection CCTV camera caught a repeat offender speeding on eight occasions within one week at the intersection.
The automatic monitoring of driver behaviour through CCTV cameras is common in China, where state surveillance has long been the norm. Chinese cameras are pervasive, albeit not always accurate.
Still, it is just a matter of time before before such cameras are deployed in Malaysia, and other countries around the world. In other words – this fake news may not stay “fake news” for long…
Please help us FIGHT FAKE NEWS by sharing this fact check article out, and please SUPPORT our work!
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
On Friday, July 7, 2023, Perak Police Chief Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri refuted the viral claims that the video showed a landslide crushing cars on the Gopeng-Tapah road. He said that a check by the police confirmed that the incident happened overseas.
The incident did not happen in Perak but overseas.
Fact #4 : This Is Just Another Fake Video
This is just another example of fake videos misappropriated to create controversies. Here are some other recent examples you may have seen recently:
Please help us FIGHT FAKE NEWS by sharing this fact check article out, and please SUPPORT our work!
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Be warned – the KL police just announced it will conduct a massive traffic op throughout Kuala Lumpur for the month of July 2023!
Massive KL Police Traffic Op To Involve 1000 Officers!
On Tuesday, 28 June 2023, Kuala Lumpur Police Chief, Dato’ Mohd Shuhaily bin Mohd Zain officiated the launching ceremony of the KL police’s Kuala Lumpur Police Operation Respect for Road Laws together with Other Enforcement Agencies (Operasi Hormat Undang-undang Jalan Raya Polis Kuala Lumpur Bersama Agensi-agensi Penguatkuasaan Yang Lain).
This massive KL police operation will take place throughout Kuala Lumpur, for the entire month of July 2023. This operation will be conducted not just by the KL police, but also the Road Transport Department (JPJ), the KL city hall (DBKL), and the Environment Department (JAS).
Roughly 1000 police personnel and officers from other agencies will be involved in this operation, but they will focus on their respective jurisdictions:
This operation will involve about 1,000 officers and police personnel with the respective agencies focusing on the offences under their own jurisdiction.
KL Police Traffic Op In July 2023 To Focus On 7 Aspects
Together with partner agencies, the massive KL police traffic operation in July 2023 will involve checking on illegal parking, obstruction of traffic, running red lights, illegal number plates, illegal tinting, and offences committed by motorcyclists.
Enforcement officials will immediately issue summonses to motorists and pedestrians caught flouting traffic laws during this operation, which will involve seven separate operations to curb traffic offences:
Operation Illegal Parking (Op Parkir Haram)
Operation Traffic Obstruction (Op Halangan)
Operation Red Light (Op Lampu Merah)
Operation Number Plates (Op Numbor Pendaftaran)
Operation Dark Tinting (Op Cermin Gelap)
Operation Motorcycle (Op Motosikal)
Operation Education (Op Didik)
Police and enforcement officers will also take this opportunity to educate motorists and pedestrians on the dangers of not obeying traffic rules.
In addition to looking out for traffic offences, the KL police will also run background checks on motorists for outstanding arrest warrants and criminal records, and look for stolen vehicles.
While not involved in traffic offences, the KL Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department will also be on the lookout for drug-related offences during this operation.
Finally, the police will also take action against workshops that are conducting illegal modifications of vehicles.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is offering a special RM50 fine for all traffic offences!
Find out how you can pay for your traffic offences for just RM50!
PDRM Offers Special RM50 Fine For Traffic Offences!
On 18 April 2023, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, announced that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) will offer a special RM50 fine for all traffic offences committed in 2022 and earlier!
From Friday, 21 April until Sunday, 21 May 2023, you will be able to pay RM50 for each traffic summon at all police district or contingent headquarters, or online using its MyBayar Saman app or website.
This special offer applies only to traffic summonses issued in 2022 and earlier. It does not apply to traffic offences committed in 2023.
The PDRM launched MyBayar Saman as an alternative payment option, instead of paying over-the-counter, or using private collecting agents like MyEG.
This would also save the public money as MyBayar Saman is FREE, and does not collect service charges. They can also pay their fines at their convenience, without wasting time queuing to pay.
Alternatively, you can also pay for your traffic offence fines at:
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
JPJ just announced a lorry ban, and that seven major offences will be non-compoundable for the Hari Raya 2023 festive season!
Hari Raya 2023 : Traffic Offenders Will Be Sent To Court!
On Friday, 14 April 2023, the Malaysia Road Transport Department (JPJ) announced that seven traffic offences will be non-compoundable throughout the Hari Raya 2023 festive season.
Motorists who commit these seven offences from 18 to 27 April 2023 will no longer be allowed to just pay a fine, but will instead be referred to the courts.
JPJ also announced that lorries and other heavy vehicles will be banned from the roads during the Hari Raya 2023 festive season to reduce traffic congestion. The ban on heavy vehicles will last four days:
two days from April 20 to 21
two days from April 24 to 25
Category 1 : Banned From Road At All Times
Car carrier, tipper, dumper, tipping (over 7,500 kg), low loader, pole trailer, bulk cement tanker, platform trailer, timber lorry, wheeled heavy machinery and tractor
Lorry carrying cement, steel, stone, sand, soil, and other construction material, amang (tin dung), tin, coal and other minerals.
Category 2 : Allowed Only From Midnight To 8 AM
Container lorry carrying goods, except container lorry carrying goods from port / airport to industrial zones in the same state, and vice versa.
Lorry carrying electronics and electrical goods / industrial materials from port / airport to industrial zones in the same state, and vice versa.
Lorry carrying oil palm and rubber produce from plantation to industrial zone.
Cargo lorry without load.
Category 3 : Allowed Only From 6 PM To 8 AM
Limited to 25 km from construction site, subject to operating hours allowed on certain roads
Mobile crane, and cement mixer
Exceptions : Wheeled heavy machinery and mobile crane are allowed if they are required for emergency work.
All other vehicles not mentioned above, or carrying goods not mentioned in the schedule above, are allowed to travel at any time.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is offering a 60% discount programme on selected traffic offences!
Find out how you can pay for your traffic offences with up to 60% discount!
PDRM Offers Up To 60% Discount For Traffic Offences!
On 19 March 2023, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) announced that it is offering up to 60% discount on selected traffic offences, in conjunction with the 216th Police Day!
From Monday, 20 March until Friday, 31 March 2023, you will be able to pay for your traffic offence fines with up to 60% discount either at all police district or contingent headquarters, or online using its MyBayar Saman app or website.
The PDRM launched MyBayar Saman as an alternative payment option, instead of paying over-the-counter, or using private collecting agents like MyEG.
This would also save the public money as MyBayar Saman is FREE, and does not collect service charges. They can also pay their fines at their convenience, without wasting time queuing to pay.
The discounts being offered do NOT apply to all traffic offences. Here is a list of traffic offences that will not be reduced under this programme :
Causing accidents
Summon for court hearing
Summon with a warrant status
Offences involving heavy vehicles
Overtaking another vehicle dangerously
Driving on the emergency lane
Non-compoundable offences
Not obeying traffic lights
Overtaking across double lines
Modification of vehicle exhausts
Op Selamat summonses
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Malaysia Transport Minister Anthony Loke just announced a lorry ban, and that seven major offences will be non-compoundable this Chinese New Year!
CNY 2023 : Traffic Offenders Will Be Sent To Court!
On Wednesday, 17 January 2023, the Transport Minister of Malaysia, Anthony Loke, announced that seven traffic offences will be non-compoundable throughout the Chinese New Year festive season.
Motorists who commit these seven offences will no longer be allowed to just pay a fine, but will instead be referred to the courts.
Cutting queue
Overtaking on double lines
Running the red light
Driving over the speed limit
Using mobile phones while driving
Not wearing a seat belt or helmet
Driving on the emergency lane
The seven major traffic offenses are cutting queue, overtaking on double lines, disobeying the red light signal, driving over the speed limit, use of mobile phones while driving, not wearing a seat belt or helmet and driving on the emergency lane.
There will be no compound issues for these offences. Offenders will be referred to court.
To ensure stricter enforcement this year, about 2,000 JPJ enforcement officers will be deployed this Chinese New Year to reduce accidents and deaths.
He also announced that lorries and other heavy vehicles will be banned from the roads during the Chinese New Year festive season to reduce traffic congestion. The ban on heavy vehicles will last four days:
two days from January 20 to 21
two days from January 24 to 25
This prohibition is intended to avoid the risk of road accidents due to mixed traffic flow between heavy vehicles and light vehicles on the road, highways, apart from avoiding traffic jams.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
PDRM is reminding all motorists to ensure that their cars’ third brake light is working, or they could be subject to a fine or jail time!
PDRM : Jail / Fine If Third Brake Light Not Working!
On 18 December 2022, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) issued a new reminder to all motorists in light of the monsoon season’s heavy rains.
PDRM wants all drivers to ensure that their cars’ third brake light is fully functional, or they could face a fine or even jail time.
Drivers who fail to ensure that their vehicles have a working third brake light can be charged under Section 119(2) of the Road Transportation Act 1987. If convicted, they would be subject to:
a fine of up to RM 2,000, or
jail of not more than six months.
PDRM issued this warning and reminder as vehicles that do not have a working third brake light will pose a danger at night and when it rains – other drivers won’t be aware of when you brake, and could end up hitting your car in the back.
Many motorists take the third brake light for granted, thinking it’s an “extra” or “backup” light to supplement the existing brake lights. That’s not true – it has been shown to reduce rear-ended accidents by 50%!
The third brake light is often located at the top or bottom of your car’s rear windshield, or on the car’s spoiler in some cases. It only lights up whenever you step on the brake pedal, making it clear to the driver behind you that you are braking.
In addition, the third brake light’s central and elevated position makes it easier for drivers behind you to spot, especially in poor lighting conditions, or when they are driving close to your car.
This really helps to cut down on rear-ended accidents, and is why the third brake light is mandatory in all new vehicles in most countries worldwide.
Whenever you send your vehicle for servicing, the mechanic will usually check all of your lights. But it is also important to check your lights once in a while, as they can potentially fail at any time.
The easiest way to check if your third brake light is working, is to get someone else to look at it while you step on the brake pedal.
But if you are alone, you can reverse your car against a wall, so you can see the third brake light reflecting off the wall when you step on the brake pedal.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) just announced roadblocks across Malaysia, that will stay until further notice!
PDRM Creates Roadblocks Across Malaysia!
This message has gone viral on WhatsApp and social media, claiming that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) setup roadblocks across the country.
It’s a long post (my English translation in bold), so feel free to skip to the next section for the facts.
Roadblock 24jam 24 hour roadblocks
Area sentul Sentul area -sentul Pasar -batu 3
Area kajang Kajang area -besraya -sg. Ramal
Area PJ PJ area -tmn kanagapuram jln klang lama -kawasan sunway pjs7 -Tol kota damansara
Area banting Banting area -petronas sg manggis
Area klang selatan South Klang area -bawah jambatan port klang
Area Ampang Ampang area -dpn Ampang point -jln Utama pandan jaya menghala ke KL
Area cheras Cheras area -shell permaisuri -Pemaisuri dekat MAWIP Cheras -Sirim bukit jalil -Taman shamelin
Area subang Subang area -TOL SEAFIELD -TOL PUTRA HEIGHT -TOL USJ -TOL BUKIT PUCHONG
Area Shah alam Shah Alam area -TOL SHAH ALAM
Area Serdang Serdang area -JALAN PASAR BORONG -JALAN SERDANG RAYA MAYBANK
Assalamualaikum semua. untuk makluman. roadblock besar-besaran akan di buat di setiap daerah di seluruh negara start malam ni sampai bila tak tahu. berikutan isu semasa👍🏼
Greetings everyone, for your information, massive roadblocks will be created in every district throughout the country starting tonight until don’t know when. Follow the current issues 👍🏼
After today’s decision there might be some turbulence in the air especially if expected & propaganda goverment is not favored
While I cannot confirm that the list of those roadblocks is correct, I can confirm that the PDRM has set-up roadblocks in every district across Malaysia.
At 10:14 AM on 23 November 2022, the Malaysia Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani issued a press statement, stating that (my English translation in bold) :
Beginning 22 November, 2022 until a time to be determined, PORM will launch road blocks at strategic locations in every district, across the country on a 24-hour basis.
The establishment of the roadblocks is part of PDRM’s crime prevention efforts through increasing the level of omnipresence to guarantee public safety and order.
For the comfort of road users and to ensure smooth traffic flow, the roadblocks will not operational during peak hours / daytime. The public is requested to cooperate with orders given at the roadblocks, especially outside of peak hours.
The community does not need to worry about carrying out daily activities because PDRM guarantees that public safety is under control.
BERMULA 22 NOVEMBER 2022 SEHINGGA SATU MASA DITETAPKAN, PORM AKAN MELANCARKAN SEKATAN JALAN RAYA (SJR) DI LOKASI-LOKASI STRATEGIK DI SETIAP DAERAH, DI SELURUH NEGARA SECARA PENUGASAN 24 JAM.
LANGKAH MENDIRIKAN SJR IN ADALAH SEBAHAGIAN DARIPADA USAHA PDRM MENCEGAH JENAYAH MELALUI PENINGKATAN TAHAP OMNIPRESENCE BAGI MENJAMIN TAHAP KESELAMATAN DAN KETENTERAMAN AWAM. DEMI KESELESAAN PENGGUNA JALAN RAYA DAN KELANCARAN LALU LINTAS, TIADA HALANGAN SJR AKAN DIJALANKAN PADA WAKTU PUNCAK / SIANG HARI, ORANG RAMAI DIMINTA MEMBERIKAN KERJASAMA DALAM MEMATUHI ARAHAN YANG DIBERIKAN KETIKA MELALUI SJR, TERUTAMANYA DI LUAR WAKTU PUNCAK.
MASYARAKAT TIDAK PERLU BIMBANG UNTUK MENJALANKAN AKTIVITI HARIAN KERANA PDRM MEMBERI JAMINAN BAHAWA TAHAP KESELAMATAN ADALAH TERKAWAL
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
The DASH highway has finally opened, and it is FREE to use until November 30, 2022!
DASH Highway Officially Open On October 14!
After six long years, the Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway (DASH) is finally open for public use!
Stretching 20.1 kilometres, DASH connects Puncak Perdana to Penchala, connecting the eastern and western townships in the Klang Valley at a cost of RM4.2 billion.
DASH highway has a 3-lane, dual-carriageway design, with each lane 3.5 metres wide, and a 3 metre-wide emergency lane.
Here are the DASH highway toll plazas and interchanges:
Puncak Perdana
Alam Suria
Denai Alam
Kampung Mealy Subang
Pinggiran Subang
Subang Dua
Subang Airport
RRIM (Kwasa Damansara)
Surian
Seksyen 5 Kota Damansara
Sunway Damansara
Penchala
It will be monitored by 37 closed-circuit cameras, with 30 vehicle incident detection systems (VIDS). There will also be 18 emergency telephone booths, 10 variable message signs (VMS), as well as 2,441 LED street lights.
DASH Highway FREE To Use Until November 30!
DASH has a concession period of 55 years, lasting from December 25, 2014 until December 24, 2069.
Its toll rates have not been announced, but DASH will be FREE for public use from 12:01 AM, October 14 until November 30, 2022!
The DASH highway is expected to eventually serve an average of 50,000 daily users, and cut the 90-minute commute between Puncak Perdana to Penchala to just 30 minutes.
DASH is also expected to relieve traffic along Persiaran Mokhtar Dahari by 39%, Jalan Sungai Buloh by 33% and Persiaran Surian by 43%.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
Toll fares for six major Klang Valley highways will be reduced this month, and next year, in what appears to be a GE15 election sweetener!
Toll Fares Reduced For Six Klang Valley Highways!
On Thursday, October 13, 2022, the caretaker Prime Minister of Malaysia, Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced a toll fare reduction for six major Klang Valley highways.
The toll fares for these four highways will be reduced on Thursday, October 20, 2022:
Ampang-Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH)
Guthrie Corridor Expressway (GCE)
Kemuning-Shah Alam Highway (LKSA)
Kajang Dispersal Link Expressway (SILK)
The toll fares for these two highways will be reduced on Sunday, January 1, 2023:
Kajang-Seremban Highway (LEKAS)
Besraya Highway
According to Ismail Sabri, the decision to reduce the toll fares for the first four highways was made in a Cabinet meeting on May 18, while the decision to reduce the toll fares for the last two highways was made on June 1.
Parliament was dissolved on October 10, paving the way for the GE15 general elections within 60 days. The fact that this decision was only announced after Parliament dissolution can be seen as an election sweetener.
Ismail Sabri also announced that the government agreed on March 4 to:
widen the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway (KLK) and add a new lane from the Gombak toll plaza to the Bentong Toll Plaza, to reduce traffic jams,
construct a new tunnelled road at Genting Sempah to accommodate higher traffic and reduce congestion
initiate flood mitigation works on the East Coast Expressway Phase 1
All these improvement works took the restructuring of toll rates into account, with supplementary concession agreements being finalised.
Through this latest restructuring, the government has saved approximately RM8.8 billion in compensation that should have been paid to the concessionaires involved. Additionally, highway users can enjoy lower toll rates to ease the cost of living.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
PLUS is warning the public to expect a massive traffic jam this long weekend, with over 7.6 million vehicles estimated to swarm its highways!
PLUS Warns Of 7.6 Million Vehicle Jam This Weekend!
PLUS is warning the public to expect a massive traffic jam, with over 7.6 million vehicles estimated to swarm its highways over the next four days!
Many Malaysians are expected to take advantage during the Maulidur Rasul (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) holiday, offering a 3-day weekend from Saturday to Monday.
In its statement released on Wednesday, 5 October 2022, PLUS said that they are estimating 1.9 million vehicles per day to use its highways from Friday until Monday.
LUS Head of Operations Excellence, Mohd Yusuf Abdul Aziz said PLUS has recorded daily traffic volumes of an average of 1.7 million vehicles since moving to the endemic phase and the trend had shown spikes of 1.9 million vehicles before each weekend.
We expect with more travellers taking advantage of the three-day weekend, traffic will be higher and a longer journey can be expected.
Therefore, we advise highway customers to be prepared and ensure their vehicles are fit for a longer drive this weekend.
How To Prepare For Traffic Jam On PLUS This Weekend!
PLUS is advising its highway users to expect a longer journey, and prepare for the inevitable traffic jam. Here are some tips to help prepare for a smoother journey this long weekend.
Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and fit for a longer travel.
a) Service your vehicle if necessary
b) Ensure the tyres are in good condition, and properly inflated
c) Ensure that the brakes are working properly
d) Top up the fuel tank for a longer journey
Top up your Touch ‘n Go card and/or TNG eWallet (if you are using TNG RFID).
Get traffic updates from PLUS through :
a)Twitter (@PLUSTrafik),
b) PLUSLine hotline : 1800-88-0000
c) PUTRI chatbot on the PLUS app
d) Electronic signboards at various locations along the highways
Use Waze or Google Maps to get live traffic updates, and to plan your travel.
Please make sure you enter and exit the highway using the correct toll booth based on your payment type. If you entered using TNG RFID, you must exit using TNG RFID.
Only Touch ‘n Go card users may alternately use the SmartTag booth (if they have one), or the TnG card booth.
While you are no longer required to wear a face mask indoors or outdoors, the Malaysia Ministry of Health (KKM) strongly recommends wearing one at highway rest stops, as they will inevitably be crowded.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
All TnG eWallet services are finally back online, after going down for over 8 hours!
Here is everything you need to know!
TnG eWallet Down Earlier : No Payments Or Transfers!
At around 1 PM today, the TnG eWallet platform went down, preventing users from making payments or even money transfers.
One of our readers, Kent Ng, shared with me the error messages he received in the TnG eWallet app.
When he tried to transfer money, he received a Connection Time Out error. He couldn’t even pay for parking using TnG eWallet!
Initially, TNG Digital said that RFID transactions were affected, but a few hours later, they said that RFID can still be used, but you are limited to the balance in your TnG eWallet.
The automatic reload feature in the TnG eWallet is still down, so you cannot use RFID to go through toll booths if there is insufficient balance in your eWallet.
Please check your TnG eWallet balance, and make sure you have enough for the toll. Otherwise, please avoid using the TnG RFID lanes at toll booths until this issue is resolved.
You will have to switch to the Touch ‘n Go card, with or without SmartTAG, to pay at toll booths. Please make sure you have sufficient balance in your TnG card.
TnG eWallet Back Online After Going Down For Over 8 Hours!
After netizens complained about not being able to make payments, TNG Digital posted a short statement that they are currently working on a solution.
Dear valued user, 📣
We understand you’re experiencing a service interruption in your eWallet at the moment & may not be able to perform payments including RFID & PayDirect transactions. 🚫
Rest assured that we are currently rectifying this matter & will update you accordingly, as soon as it is back online. 🧐
We apologise for the inconvenience caused. Thank you for your kind patience & understanding. 🙏
The Touch ‘n Go eWallet team. 💙
About six hours later, they were still not able to restore payments. But the good news is that they say that TNG RFID will work at highway toll booths, as long as you have sufficient balance in your eWallet.
Touch ‘n Go Wallet is currently experiencing a technical difficulty and as such we are experiencing a disruption of all Touch ‘n Go Wallet services.
Touch ‘n Go cards and RFID can still be used in highways, transit and parking if you have sufficient balance.
You can reload all your Touch ‘n Go cards at physical reload points as usual.
We are working to restore our services as soon as possible.
At 9:35 PM – after over 8 hours of downtime – TNG Digital finally announced that all Touch ‘n Go eWallet are finally up and running!
Touch ‘n Go Wallet and its services are up and running.
We apologise for the inconvenience caused earlier and thank you for your kind patients.
They however noticeably did not reveal what happened to their platform, or explain why it took them so long to get it back online again.
We can only hope that they learned from this incident, and will put in place measures to prevent it from happening again…
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
To alleviate traffic jams in and around KL, lorries and heavy vehicles are now banned during peak hours!
Here is what you need to know…
KL : Lorries + Heavy Vehicles Banned During Peak Hours!
On 2 June 2022, the Malaysia Department of Transportation (JPJ) announced that lorries and other heavy vehicles are banned from KL roads during peak hours!
This ban was instituted to relieve the heavy traffic jams that KL has experienced recently, particularly during the morning and late afternoon.
With this order, lorries and heavy vehicles are now banned from 6:30 AM until 9:30 AM every morning, and from 4:30 PM until 7:30 PM every afternoon and evening.
Lorries + Heavy Vehicles Ban In KL : The Details
Here are the details of the ban on lorries and heavy vehicles in KL :
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
All vehicles with Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) / Berat Dengan Mutton (BDM) of 7,500 kilograms and above (7.5 tonnes and above).
Where + When Are These Vehicles Banned From Entering KL?
Those heavy vehicles are banned at least 5 kilometres from the KL city centre, at entry points into city.
JPJ will erect signboards to notify drivers where they are banned from driving their lorries and heavy vehicles into KL.
Here are the lists of locations and when lorries and heavy vehicles are banned :
Morning + Afternoon Ban
Lorries and heavy vehicles are banned from entering these locations in KL at these times :
6:30 AM until 9:30 AM
4:30 PM until 7:30 PM
Locations :
All roads in the KL city centre
Jalan Kuching, from Taman Wahyu, Jalan Ipoh until the KL city centre
Jalan Cheras, from Taman Midah until the KL city centre
PLUS highway, from Rawang R&R heading towards KL
PLUS highway, from the Bukit Raja toll plaza (Klang) heading towards KL
Jalan Tun Razak
Jalan Istana
Jalan Segambut
Jalan Sentul
Afternoon Only Ban
Lorries and heavy vehicles are banned from entering these locations in KL at these times :
4:30 PM until 7:30 PM
Locations :
Jalan Kepong
Jalan Ipoh, from the Kepong roundabout to Jalan Batu Caves
Karak Highway
Jalan Gombak, from Jalan Kampung Bandar Dalam until the KL border
Jalan Genting Kelang
Jalan Cheras, from Jalan Pudu until Jalan Tenteram
Jalan Sungai Besi, from Jalan Kuchai Lama until the KL-Seremban Highway.
Jalan Kelang Lama (Old Klang Road), from Federal Highway until Jalan Kuchai Lama
What Is The Penalty?
Those who caught driving their lorries or heavy vehicles into KL during the banned hours, will be subject to :
a compound of not more than RM300, or
charged in court, where the fine of RM300 to RM2000 may be imposed on conviction.
Please Support My Work!
Support my work through a bank transfer / PayPal / credit card!
Name : Adrian Wong Bank Transfer : CIMB 7064555917 (Swift Code : CIBBMYKL)
Credit Card / Paypal : https://paypal.me/techarp
Dr. Adrian Wong has been writing about tech and science since 1997, even publishing a book with Prentice Hall called Breaking Through The BIOS Barrier (ISBN 978-0131455368) while in medical school.
He continues to devote countless hours every day writing about tech, medicine and science, in his pursuit of facts in a post-truth world.
The recent case of a Chinese driver getting fine for scratching his face is a funny example of current AI surveillance technology. Yet it is also a wake-up call on the dangers of pervasive AI surveillance by the state.
Fined For Scratching Nose By AI Surveillance System!
A Jinan resident, Mr. Liu, was driving his car in the eastern Shandong province, when he raised his hand to touch his face. Most of us unconsciously do that 2 to 5 times per minute!
Unbeknownst to him, one of the many AI surveillance cameras in the city noticed his action, and issued him a fine of 50 yuan* and 2 demerit points for “driving while holding a phone“.
* Approximately $7.25 / £5.70 / €6.50 / RM 30
The Jinan AI surveillance system also sent him this screenshot of his traffic violation, as captured at 7:20 AM on 20 May 2019.
Just like many automated systems (looking at you, Facebook and Google!), there was no way to dispute the charge. Mr. Liu tried to sort out the situation over the phone, but “no one would help him“.
He only got justice by appealing to the court of public opinion on Sina Weibo, where his post went viral. Only then did the Jinan traffic police department take notice and investigate his complaint.
Two days later, they cancelled his ticket after confirming that he was only touching his face, and not actually using a phone while driving.
AI Surveillance In Chinese Cities
China has been working hard at developing smart cities, as part of their social engineering efforts to quell political dissent and encourage Chinese citizens to “behave properly”.
There are already over 170 million surveillance cameras across China, with a projected 400 million surveillance cameras installed by next year. And they are all controlled by AI surveillance systems.
Such extensive surveillance coverage has allowed the Chinese government to detect crimes and punish their citizens for them. It also feeds the new Social Credit System – a national reputation system that assess the economic and social reputation of every Chinese citizen and business.
However, such pervasive surveillance has led to serious privacy implications for the Chinese citizenry. Anyone who wants to understand the power, allure and dangers of AI surveillance should watch the TV series, Person of Interest.
The Dangers Of AI Surveillance
While AI surveillance technology is now quite incredible, this case has exposed its vulnerabilities and limitations.
Human oversight is still necessary, because AI surveillance is not accurate enough to detect false positives.
It may be tempting to make the AI surveillance system the judge, jury and executioner, but such systems need to implement the principle of “guilty beyond a reasonable doubt“, and that means ignoring anything that is not close to a 99.9% match.
There should be an appeal system in place. It took a viral social media post to alert the Jinan traffic police department to the mistake.
There is also the question of personal data security. Can the government securely store the data, without unsanctioned or illegal access? How long should they store the information before they are deleted?
Alibaba Cloud + The Malaysia City Brain
Alibaba Cloud is one of the chief architects of Chinese smart city initiative and AI surveillance capabilities with their ET City Brain that runs on their Tianchi Platform.
Last year, Alibaba Cloud announced their collaboration with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) to introduce the Malaysia City Brain.
The first phase of the Malaysia City Brain will kickstart with 382 AI traffic cameras at 281 traffic light junctions in Kuala Lumpur.
Although the Malaysian government is ostensibly implementing the Malaysia City Brain to “optimise the flow of vehicles and timing of traffic signals“, it is really a short step to the Chinese model of population and crime surveillance.
If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!
