Think Twice Before Sharing Videos of Traffic Offenses Online, Says Bukit Aman JSTP

As social media platforms continue to dominate daily life, the sharing of traffic offences videos has become sort of a trend in Malaysia. While some argue that these videos can help raise awareness and promote accountability, others, including authorities like the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), warn against encouraging such practices.

Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, the Director of Bukit Aman JSPT, highlighted the growing problem of "trial by social media" in a recent statement. He cautioned that the viral nature of traffic offence videos could lead to confusion, public safety risks, and the misinterpretation of events.

 "We will take stern action if videos of road mishaps or offences are merely recorded for content, marketing, and viral purposes that could jeopardise the safety of others or cause public confusion," he said.

While recording incidents of reckless driving or road accidents may seem harmless, the act of posting such videos without proper context can have unintended consequences. Mohd Yusri urged those who witness traffic offences to report them directly to the authorities rather than taking matters into their own hands through social media. 

"We want everyone to feel safe on the road, in line with our tagline ‘Selamat Bersama JSPT,’” he said. 

“Witnesses should inform the police as soon as possible to help us complete an investigation and identify those who are negligent or committed offences in accident cases.”

Posting content such as this can lead to public panic, online harassment, or even "mob justice," as those involved in the incidents might be subject to intense social media scrutiny. The JSPT emphasizes that traffic laws and regulations are in place to ensure road safety and to handle offences through the authorities.

However, not all views on the matter are negative. Some road safety advocates argue that videos of traffic offences, when used responsibly, can promote road safety and deter reckless driving. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, the chairman of the Alliance for a Safe Community, stated that the trend of sharing videos on social media could serve a dual purpose. 

"This could also enhance public awareness, promote accountability, and engage communities about road safety," Lee said. He further explained that the shared footage could provide law enforcement with valuable evidence in cases where admissibility in court is not an issue, helping to reinforce the legal process. Such videos can serve as educational tools, offering real-life examples of the dangers posed by reckless driving and encouraging the public to follow road safety rules.

"This collective awareness can lead to increased local advocacy for better traffic laws and enforcement measures," he added.

Content creator Megat S. Hadi also weighed in on the issue, acknowledging that videos can help authorities identify offenders and provide a clearer picture of road safety problems. "Crowdsourced footage can also supplement official reports and help create a more accurate picture of road safety issues," said Megat. However, he urged caution, warning that footage should be used responsibly. "Such footage should not lead to mob justice or harassment of the parties involved," he added.

Megat also pointed out the potential deterrent effect of social media exposure. "The spread of videos depicting traffic rule violations does potentially deter people from breaking the law. The fear of being publicly shamed or recognised online can serve as a powerful motivator for compliance."

Ultimately, it's crucial for the public to be aware of the consequences of sharing videos online. Authorities encourage witnesses of traffic offences to report incidents directly to the police, allowing for a thorough and lawful investigation.


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