Kuala Lumpur: The Transport Ministry (MoT) maintains a no-compromise and zero-tolerance approach to integrity issues involving enforcement officers under its jurisdiction, its minister Anthony Loke said. He emphasized that integrity issues are a significant challenge currently faced by the ministry.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke stated that when integrity issues arise, MoT is always ready to cooperate with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC). This was evident when a corruption syndicate involving the Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) was exposed. Loke explained that if such issues need to be addressed, the ministry will monitor the information with the help of the Road Transport Department's (JPJ) intelligence unit. They will conduct surveillance and work closely with the MACC to tackle these concerns.
Loke mentioned that JPJ has been tasked with intensifying efforts to identify integrity breaches involving enforcement officers who violate rules and regulations. He highlighted the necessity of adopting artificial intelligence (AI) technology to enhance vehicle enforcement efforts. This includes using the High Speed - Weight in Motion (HS-WIM) system to automatically monitor the load of heavy vehicles, expected to be operational in the third quarter of this year.
Loke pointed out that syndicates continually find ways to bypass enforcement measures, making the use of technology or AI crucial for strengthening enforcement capabilities. With HS-WIM, heavy vehicles will no longer need to be taken to weighing stations as the technology, equipped with sensors, will detect if a vehicle is overloaded as it passes through areas installed with the system.
The minister also encouraged more transport companies to collaborate with public universities to research and find better solutions to industry challenges. He noted that such strategic collaboration allows private companies to expose students to practical, real-world industry challenges, while students can apply their knowledge and skills to solve these issues.
Loke further stated that by leveraging AI and computer science, more data can be integrated and analyzed. He mentioned a current focus on safety issues, with AI systems enhancing port operations by efficiently calculating materials and the quantity of goods unloaded at ports.