The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is looking into using closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems to monitor and act against motorists who encroach on bicycle lanes, a move aimed at improving cyclist safety without relying solely on on-ground enforcement.
“We can’t be there 24/7, but if we install CCTVs at key points, we can record evidence and take appropriate action,” said JPJ assistant director (operations) Mohd Alifarihan Abdullah at a town hall session titled “Public Roads Don’t Belong to Bicycle Gangs” moderated by former sports minister and avid cyclist Khairy Jamaluddin.
He noted that misuse of bicycle lanes and emergency lanes remains a frequent and dangerous issue, especially by motorcyclists. With video evidence, the department could issue summonses or take further action against repeat offenders.
Cycling advocacy has seen a rise in recent years, but tensions between cyclists and motorists have also grown. A recent viral video showing an MRT feeder bus driving too close to a group of cyclists riding abreast reignited debate over road sharing and safety.
In light of the incident, JPJ is also considering making dashboard cameras (dashcams) compulsory in public transport vehicles. Alifarihan said current licensing conditions only require GPS systems, but mandatory dashcams could provide clearer evidence in future incidents.
Bukit Aman Traffic Investigations and Enforcement Department deputy director of enforcement Khairul Azhar Ismail, who was also on the panel, stressed that safer roads depend on shared responsibility. “Understanding each other’s rights and responsibilities is key,” he said.
Alifarihan also acknowledged that enforcement is complicated by inconsistent behaviour among cyclists themselves, especially when riding in columns or pairs, which makes rule application less straightforward.
Image Source: Asian Cycling Confederation & Simon Gim Aik Tan
Source: MalayMail
