Last year, PDRM confirmed that hands-free driving or autopilot mode is not allowed in Malaysia, following the incident of a Singaporean couple who travelled in our country by having their Tesla driving them in autopilot mode.
This time, local model & influencer, Gatita Yan may have just gotten her boyfriend into trouble after sharing an Instagram story that shows him sleeping behind the wheels while the car runs on autopilot. In her Instagram stories yesterday (March 28), Gatita also revealed that the car was set to autopilot during their journey to Ipoh and there was no need to have the hands on the wheel.
The stories not only showed her boyfriend’s hands which were off the wheel but also his feet which were not on the pedal or the brake.
The Instagram stories have since been deleted following debates online. However, the screenshots of the stories have circulated online and caught the attention of PDRM.
“Still in Ipoh? We’ll detain you”
Speaking to the media last night, Perak’s Chief of Police, Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan said that he will instruct the traffic department to detain the couple if they were found in Ipoh.
“It’s illegal for anyone to drive dangerously,” Yusri added.
When asked if self-driving cars are banned on the roads in Malaysia, Yusri said that he will first check with the traffic police to further understand the situation.
At the time of writing (March 29), Gatita has yet to respond to the matter via her social media.
Last year, Bukit Aman Chief Assistant Director of Traffic Investigations and Enforcement (JSPT) Superintendent Dr. Bakri Zainal Abidin confirmed that while there are no enacted regulations related to the automated driving system, the Land Traffic Act 1959 insists that drivers must drive well, be careful and concentrate.
The automated driving system will undeniably ease our travel but if the law prohibits us from doing so, it’s best to avoid it.
Also read: “Chase your dreams” – From RM1.5K to Millions, Gatita Yan Shares How She Earned Her 1st RM100K
