5 firms picked to provide telematics services to commercial vehicles

BANGI: The transport ministry has accredited five companies to provide telematics services to commercial vehicle operators as part of a phased initiative to improve road safety through better monitoring of drivers and vehicles.

Its minister, Loke Siew Fook, said BSmart System Solution Sdn Bhd, Navipulse Sdn Bhd, MyLorry Technology Solutions Sdn Bhd, Theta Edge Bhd and ANSA Digital Sdn Bhd had met the standards set by the road transport department (JPJ) and were now recognised telematics service providers.

Loke said AI-powered telematics systems can detect speeding, dangerous driving, and signs of driver fatigue through onboard cameras.

He said the ministry would adopt a gradual approach over the next one to two years to demonstrate the effectiveness of telematics before deciding on any further measures.

“We are not making it compulsory for companies to install telematics systems at this time,” he said at the launch of BSmart System Solution’s commercial vehicle telematics initiative here today.

“However, we strongly encourage their adoption because we believe the technology can help monitor driver behaviour and improve road safety.

“The onboard cameras will capture the data on whether a driver is speeding, driving dangerously or showing signs of drowsiness. The AI system can analyse whether the driver is fatigued or closing their eyes, as well as monitor how the vehicle is being driven.”

Loke said some systems can also require drivers to undergo alcohol and drug tests before starting a journey, with the engine prevented from starting if the driver tests positive.

He said operators would not need to purchase the hardware outright, as recognised providers offer telematics through subscription packages costing between RM60 and RM300 a vehicle a month.

Under the ministry’s roadmap, the first phase from now until next year will focus on voluntary adoption, followed by the development of a centralised commercial vehicle driver database in 2027.

A proposed third phase, beginning in 2028, will consider making telematics a licensing requirement for commercial vehicles, subject to industry readiness and the development of the necessary government systems.

“At this stage, there is no question of making it mandatory. We will encourage its adoption first and hope it helps transform our road safety landscape,” Loke said.