Penang: The Penang state government has instructed both local authorities in the state to immediately suspend the implementation of the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system for issuing compounds, to allow a review of its details.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow stated that the decision was made after the state government considered public feedback and opinions regarding the system's implementation. Chow emphasized the importance of listening to the people's voices, reviewing necessary details, and ensuring that every policy implemented genuinely considers the interests of Penang's citizens.

Chow mentioned that this issue was among those discussed in a meeting with Penang DAP chairman Steven Sim and Penang DAP deputy chairman Zairil Khir Johari, following his chairing of the Penang Pakatan Harapan (PH) Leadership Council meeting. They also addressed issues concerning the livelihood of Penang residents, especially the current economic challenges, with related measures to be detailed and announced soon.

Yesterday, MBPP Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran noted that the ANPR system's use by MBPP, which started on April 24 last year, led to an average of 7,000 parking offence compounds being issued monthly. The system's technology was said to have enhanced the efficiency of parking enforcement, with nearly 20,000 parking bays managed by the local authority on the island.

The ANPR system, operational since April 24, 2025, involving two vehicles, allowed MBPP to detect parking offences more accurately than manual inspection methods. Despite its efficiency, its implementation raised concerns among Penang residents, including former Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.