Joint enforcement drive to improve highway safety

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Malaysia has launched the Smart Highway Traffic Monitoring Centre, a multi-agency initiative using advanced surveillance technologies to detect traffic violations and improve emergency responses on major highways. By enhancing real-time monitoring and coordination, the system aims to reduce accidents and expedite patrol response times, especially during high-traffic periods.

Malaysia has introduced a comprehensive highway safety enforcement initiative that brings together multiple government agencies to address traffic violations and enhance emergency response on major roadways. The effort was highlighted by the launch of the Smart Highway Traffic Monitoring Centre, unveiled on September 8 at the Besraya Traffic Monitoring Centre at Plaza Tol Loke Yew in Kuala Lumpur.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi described the center as a key component in improving highway safety through automated surveillance technologies. The system is designed to detect a range of hazards, including vehicles traveling in the wrong direction, illegal lane changes, traffic congestion, and unauthorized stopping or parking. It is also equipped to identify environmental and road safety issues such as illegal dumping of rubbish, unauthorized advertisements, potholes, road damage, liquid spills, vehicle breakdowns, and pedestrian presence.

Currently, the monitoring system does not have the capability to issue traffic summonses directly. However, data and footage recorded by the center can be used by law enforcement agencies to support traffic enforcement actions. Nanta noted that emergency response times for highway patrol teams have improved significantly since the system's implementation, decreasing from an average of 15 minutes to approximately 8 to 10 minutes.

The Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) operates the monitoring center, which maintains 24-hour surveillance of traffic conditions using 873 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. Additional infrastructure includes 278 Variable Message Signs (VMS) strategically placed to provide real-time information and warnings to drivers. Within the Traffic Control Centre itself, an integrated network of 144 CCTV units, 87 Video Incident Detection Systems (VIDS), 35 Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) devices, and 22 VMS displays help coordinators track and manage highway conditions dynamically.

The system facilitates prompt coordination of responses to incidents and allows authorities to relay critical information to highway users through VMS boards, navigation applications, social media platforms, and other traffic information channels. This is particularly important during peak travel periods and festive seasons, when traffic volumes typically increase and risks on highways rise.

The joint enforcement approach underscores Malaysia’s commitment to leveraging technology for enhanced road safety and efficient traffic management, aiming to reduce accidents and improve overall travel experiences on the nation's highways.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.