The Kuala Lumpur police are asking the public to stop sharing information about police presence and roadblocks through the navigation app Waze. According to KL police chief Datuk Azmi Abu Kassim, reporting police presence will only hinder enforcement efforts against motorists who drive under the influence of alcohol or commit other traffic offenses.
Road users should be aware of the dangers they face from drunk drivers, drivers who run red lights, and those who drive against traffic flow, says Azmi. He hopes the public will cooperate with the police instead of trying to help traffic offenders.
Waze’s reporting of police presence is a standard feature that helps other road users reduce their speed at potential speed traps and avoid roadblocks. While it is unclear if using the Waze reporting feature is illegal in Malaysia, it is an offense to use a phone while driving. Reporting police presence on mobile apps is banned in countries such as France.
Last year, the Surrey police force in the UK caused controversy when they dropped police presence reports on Waze in an attempt to make drivers slow down. In response to criticism, the police force stated that their actions were a clever and innovative use of technology, not due to policing budget cuts.
In conclusion, the Kuala Lumpur police are urging the public to stop reporting police presence and roadblocks through Waze to help enforce traffic laws and keep the roads safe.
