CAP Warns of Rising Dangers from Bright Digital Billboards

The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) has urged the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) and local authorities to regulate the growing number of electronic billboards along major roads, warning that they pose an increasing risk to road safety.

CAP President Mohideen Abdul Kader said the bright and fast-changing digital displays are distracting drivers and endangering lives. A recent CAP survey in Penang and Kuala Lumpur found that these billboards often capture attention not for their advertising value but because of the hazards they create.

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“Research shows that digital billboards with brightness levels above 300 cd/m² at night can cause temporary visual impairment, reducing a driver’s ability to detect danger,” he said. 

Studies by the US Federal Highway Administration and international experts also warn that excessive lighting reduces contrast sensitivity and slows reaction times.

For better safety, Mohideen said experts recommend much lower brightness levels of 100–150 cd/m² at night. He added that the risk is compounded by flashing lights, moving text and rapid image changes, which divert drivers’ attention at critical spots such as busy highways, tunnels, U-turns and complex intersections.

He called for stricter rules on placement, size and brightness, along with a ban on distracting visual effects and regular enforcement to ensure compliance.

“We need urgent action before more accidents happen. Road safety cannot be sacrificed for advertising profits,” he said.

Source: Harian Metro