PDRM: Practice Caution When Sharing Dashcam Videos Online

There is a new dynamic in road safety resulting from the increased dashcam adoption and, subsequently, the sharing of footage from which online via social media. Videos of reckless driving might increase public awareness and reveal risky behaviour, but they also pose difficulties for law enforcement.

Recently, head of the Alliance for a Safe Community, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, thinks these videos can be an effective tool. "They expose dangerous driving, raise public awareness, and even provide crucial evidence for the police," he asserts. "Seeing the real-life consequences of reckless driving can also instill fear of committing such an act."

This however does not sit well in the eyes of The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM). Its Federal Police Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) director, Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, was recently quoted by local daily The Star where he warned that these videos will lead to online "trials" that can hinder investigations.

Instead, he urges people to hand over these videos and report incidents directly to the police instead of just posting videos online. "Timely information is crucial for thorough investigations and identifying those responsible for traffic offenses," he emphasised.

Lee also discussed the problem of delivery riders acting recklessly because of financial strains, a lack of proper training, and the seeming absence of repercussions. Lee thinks that in order to solve this problem, a multifaceted strategy that includes improved training, funding, and more stringent rules is required.

Meanwhile, Megat S. Hadi, a content creator, noted the importance of these films but cautioned against their abuse. "Online shaming can be a powerful deterrent, but it shouldn't turn into mob justice," according to him. "The key is to use this footage responsibly, as a tool to improve road safety for everyone."

In our view, controlling the sharing of dashcam footage on social media is nearly impossible in today's digital age. Instead, PDRM could focus on introducing an easier, more accessible reporting mechanism similar to the MyJPJ app, allowing users to report incidents online conveniently, rather than requiring them to visit a police station physically.