Kong: Outsourcing AES operation a common practice elsewhere

PORT KLANG: Outsourcing the operation of Automated Enforcement System (AES) cameras to private companies is a common practice, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha said.

"Many countries do this. The purpose is to enforce and maximise the use of manpower and expertise in the field.

"Hence, what the Government did is nothing unusual or peculiar," he told reporters during the World Maritime Day 2012 at the Marine Department here Thursday.

He was commenting on the Government's reason for granting a five-year contract to two private firms to manage the AES cameras.

Kong also reiterated his call to not politicise the installation of AES cameras, saying that those who were against it were the ones who did not care about road safety.

"In Selangor, there are over 1,000 accidents while Penang and Kedah recorded more than 500 accidents per year. So, I think it is really unfair to go against something that is good for the country," he said.

The system has been a subject of controversy since its launch on Sept 22, which saw the operation of 14 cameras nationwide.

Asked to comment on Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club (BNBBC) deputy chairman Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin and several DAP leaders' call to defer the AES, Kong refused to comment.

Source From : The Star