Penang suspends automated parking fines after public outcry

Penang's state government has ordered an immediate suspension of automated number plate recognition (ANPR) technology used for parking enforcement, responding to a surge of public criticism. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced the decision on August 8, stating that local councils must halt the system's use and review its implementation.

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We agreed that the state government must continue to be sensitive and listen to the pulse of the people, and take appropriate steps to help ease their burden.

The backlash centers on complaints that motorists are given too little time to pay for parking before automated fines are issued. This has caused significant frustration among residents, particularly amid current economic pressures. Chow acknowledged the need for the government to remain sensitive to public sentiment and take steps to alleviate burdens.

The suspension follows discussions within the Penang Pakatan Harapan leadership council and meetings with state party officials. While the Penang Island City Council Mayor A. Rajendran defended the system, citing a one-minute grace period as sufficient, critics like Penang MCA chairman Tan Teik Cheng argued that technology should simplify services, not just expedite fines. The council's two ANPR vehicles were capable of issuing approximately 7,000 compounds monthly.

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What is important is that we listen to the voice of the people, review what needs to be reviewed and ensure that every policy implemented truly takes into account the interests of the people of Penang.

The ANPR system, introduced in 2025, was intended to improve efficiency and reduce human error in managing Penang's growing number of parking bays, which have increased from about 11,000 to 20,000 in a decade. However, the public outcry has prompted the government to reconsider its approach, prioritizing public interest and ease of use.

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technology should make public services easier rather than simply allow fines to be issued more quickly.