ANPR pause: MCA wants clarity on fees, enforcement

Penang MCA chief Datuk Tan Teik Cheng has welcomed the state government's temporary suspension of the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system. Tan believes this pause offers an opportunity to address concerns raised by MCA and other sectors before the system is brought back online. According to Tan, if the ANPR is reintroduced, the government must clearly outline fee collection, enforcement, fines, and complaint mechanisms to ensure transparency.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has instructed both local authorities to suspend the ANPR implementation pending a review, following public feedback on the system's rollout. Tan suggests the review should clarify how ANPR will work with Penang Smart Parking (PSP), and address issues such as penalties during system failures, alternative payment methods for seniors and visitors unfamiliar with smartphones, and the accessibility of complaint mechanisms.

Tan emphasizes that technology should be people-centric, making it easier for motorists to interact with the system. He also notes Chow's promise to review issues seriously and make timely adjustments, urging the government to involve consumer groups, NGOs, and other stakeholders during the review process. Tan stresses that policies should prioritize public opinion, improve the system based on feedback, and then implement it fully, rather than treating citizens as 'rats in the dark'.

ANPR is a camera-based technology that uses optical character recognition to read vehicle licence plates, part of the proposed Penang Smart Parking system.