Previously, we shared about the new Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) cameras that are replacing the Automated Enforcement System (AES) cameras, which the Ministry of Transport (MOT) and Road Transport Department (JPJ) said can catch more speeders using a point-to-point system. Hence, road users must keep their speed in check over a set distance instead of just slowing down in front of the cameras.
Well, one of the AWAS cameras was recently spotted being installed in Kuala Lumpur, specifically on Jalan Klang Lama or Old Klang Road, garnering rather negative feedback from road users frequenting the route.
A new AWAS camera was spotted being installed on Old Klang Road
The Old Klang Road Facebook page, an unofficial social media page that shares updates and incidents on the road, shared a photo of the new AWAS camera being installed.
In the photo, the camera, which is embedded inside a black pole, can be seen being installed by workers by the road in front of Pearl Point Shopping Mall. As of the time of writing, the Facebook post has gone viral, garnering over 1,300 reactions, 555 shares and generally negative comments from netizens.
Malaysians react to the new AWAS camera being installed at a location infamous for its traffic jam
One commenter was perplexed at an AWAS camera being installed there, as the road is infamous for its traffic jam, saying that no driver can go over 40km/h there.
Several netizens echoed the same sentiment, saying that JPJ and MOT are wasting money installing an AWAS camera there as Old Klang Road is more often than not in a traffic standstill.
Meanwhile, several commenters urged the authorities to focus on the main issue on Old Klang Road, which is double parked vehicles that cause traffic jams in the first place.
Another netizen said that the most ridiculous change along Old Klang Road was the designated bus lane, which was enforced by the Kuala Lumpur City Council (DBKL) starting in August 2024.
Besides that, several commenters chided MOT for installing more AWAS cameras as Transport Minister Anthony Loke was previously against the cameras before Pakatan Harapan (PH) became the Federal Government.
In case you missed it, Loke had responded to Malaysians scolding him on this and clarified his stance on the matter.
The AWAS camera on Old Klang Road is for enforcement against traffic light violators, not speeding
While the AWAS camera being installed is identical to other AWAS cameras, the new camera on Old Klang Road is not actually meant for enforcement against speeding vehicles. Instead, it’s meant for enforcement against traffic light-related violations.
A quick check on the JPJ official website showed that the department had announced the AWAS camera on Old Klang Road and its function back in 2018.
Moreover, the camera’s location on the road was also revealed in another statement as part of 15 other AWAS cameras nationwide specifically for enforcement against traffic light violations.
With all of the above in mind, what do you guys think of the AWAS camera on Old Klang Road? Do you agree with its installation at the location? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
