New AwAS speed cameras: What drivers need to know
Equipped with 360-degree surveillance and Automated Number Plate Recognition technology, these cameras efficiently detect traffic offences.
SHAH ALAM – Many Malaysian drivers have long been accustomed to slowing down only when approaching speed cameras. However, with the latest upgrade to the Automated Awareness Safety System (AwAS), that habit may soon become a thing of the past.
The Transport Ministry is introducing a point-to-point speed monitoring system, ensuring drivers maintain consistent speeds over longer distances rather than just decelerating near speed camera locations.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced in January that the country’s outdated static speed traps would be replaced with this state-of-the-art system, which calculates the average speed of vehicles over a designated distance for more effective enforcement.
“This initiative aims to promote safer driving habits and reduce the alarming number of road accidents in Malaysia,” Loke said.
Enhancing Road Safety
The new AwAS system is part of a broader effort to improve road safety and reduce traffic accidents nationwide.
Selangor Road Transport Department (RTD) director Azrin Borhan said that speed cameras serve as a deterrent for reckless driving.
“These cameras discourage speeding offences. Most drivers are already aware of their existence, as large signs are placed in advance to alert them before reaching a speed camera,” he said.
AwAS in Malaysia is an advanced traffic enforcement system that monitors and enforces traffic regulations, particularly speeding and red-light violations.
Equipped with 360-degree surveillance and Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology, these cameras efficiently detect traffic offences.
The upgraded system transitions from static monitoring to a dynamic point-to-point approach, tracking vehicles' average speeds between two locations.
Unlike traditional cameras, these new AwAS cameras are designed to blend into the surroundings, resembling ordinary black poles, making them less noticeable to drivers.
They also identify other traffic offences, including unauthorised U-turns, and can even monitor environmental changes such as temperature and humidity fluctuations.
The phased rollout of the upgraded AwAS cameras is expected to be completed by September 2025, with additional features planned to monitor overweight lorries and other road safety concerns.
AwAS camera locations in Selangor
Azrin said the AwAS system is gradually replacing the older Automated Enforcement System (AES) cameras and is being installed at strategic locations across Malaysia.
In Selangor, Azrin revealed some of the current locations include:
- KM18 Lebuhraya GCE (Northbound)
- KM18 Lebuhraya GCE (Southbound)
- KM28.4 Lebuhraya ELITE (Northbound)
- KM17 Lebuhraya ELITE (Southbound)
Additional AwAS cameras have been placed along other high-risk roads to enhance traffic monitoring and enforcement.
He urged drivers to stay vigilant, adhere to speed limits and prioritise safety to reduce accidents on Malaysian roads.
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