GEORGE TOWN: All 303 enforcement officers within the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) will be equipped with body cameras in a bid to enhance the transparency and safety of its officers.
At present, 65 body cameras are in use — 25 by the traffic wardens and the remaining by its clamping and towing units and during enforcement operations.
Next year, the MBPP will add another 50 units of body cameras.
State local government and town and country planning committee chairman H'ng Mooi Lye said the initiative was part of ongoing steps by MBPP to strengthen professionalism and build public trust towards its officers during enforcement actions.
He said there were numerous instances in the past where various accusations, including graft and others, were hurled against enforcement officers in the course of duty.
"We have no evidence to prove otherwise.
"So, with the body cameras, we can maintain integrity and transparency whereby the footage will serve as verifiable evidence to support officers' action during enforcement actions.
"Apart from that, it can also help to protect both the enforcement officers and the public from any misunderstanding or negative perception that may lead to a conflict," he said today.
He said footage recordings can also be used as valid evidence for any investigation or legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, H'ng said he would advise the Seberang Prai City Council (MBSP) to use body cameras by June next year.
He said the MBSP's jurisdiction was huge and might require many cameras.
"We will look at the requirements and do it accordingly in phases.
"We hope that all our enforcement officers, whether the MBPP or the MBSP, will ultimately be equipped with body cameras," he added.