ITS STRATEGIC PLAN FOR MALAYSIA

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

Over the past decade, Governments in many countries have devoted

significant resources to the application of modern computer and electronic
technology to transport. In particular, USA, Europe and Japan have been
involved in extensive programs of research, development and
implementation of Intelligent Transport Systems' or ITS.

These activities have been prompted by the growing realisation that continued
investment in major transport infrastructure projects is only one factor in
'solving' the transport problem. While selected construction remains
necessary, the widespread application of ITS is essential to ensure that the
available infrastructure is utilised with maximum efficiency.

WHAT IS ITS

ITS is the application of modern computer electronic and communications

technology to transport. These technologies are already revolutionising the
way we live and work and they can equally well revolutionise the way that we
travel.

The Figure below gives a summary of the main elements of ITS that are
available now, with an indication of the potential benefits. It is estimated that
the capital cost of ITS is typically 2 to 3% of the main infrastructure capital
cost and the benefit cost ratio is 6 to 1.

Benefits are primarily to the community and hence require innovative

approaches to revenue collection and privatisation. In most countries, much of
the ITS deployment has been initiated by Government bodies.

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ITS IN MALAYSIA

Some ITS applications are already existence in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur has
had a computer controlled traffic signal system for many years and this is
being enhanced and extended.

Several expressways around the Klang Valley have computerised monitoring

and control systems with Variable Message Signs (VMS) and traffic detectors.
Several Electronic Toll Collection systems are in operation and the Touch and
Go smart card is being used for both toll collection and on public transport.

Although these installations are beneficial, there are three limitations:

• The systems are installed in an ad hoc manner with no co-ordination and

inter- operation;
• There is no widespread implementation and the benefits are only available
in a small area;
• The systems are largely imported with little technology transfer to
Malaysian industry.

In order to improve the situation in future, it is necessary to:

• Improve the general understanding of ITS and the associated benefits in

Malaysia;
• Improve co-ordination between agencies involved, both public and private
sector;
• Provide a firm central policy and direction both to promote beneficial
implementation and develop local expertise.

To help to realise the pontential benefits of ITS and overcome the problems
being faced in achieving widespread and harmonised implementation, the
REAM ITS Technical Committee has produced this ITS Strategic Plan. It
charts a course for ITS deployment to maxi mise the benefits, both the
transport providers and users and also to Malaysian industry.
The aim is the intelligent development and application of Intelligent Transport
Systems.

The DBKL UTC Centre shown above is good example of a modern urban
traffic control system. A network of traffic detectors send information back to
a central computer and signal timings are optimised on a second by second
basis to minimise delay and congestion. Reduction of delay up to 20% are
possible for this type of system.

The ITS installed on the Lebuhraya Damansara Puchong combines urban

control of traffic signals at entry and exit ramps with expressway surveillance
and control facilities. The control centre, shown below, utilises a central
computer system to monitor and control traffic signals interchanges, to control
Variable Message Signs and to monitor traffic flow through CCTV and traffic
sensors along the highway.

ITS NEEDS IN MALAYSIA

In order to maximise benefits of ITS, it is important to plan applications very

carefully in accordance with an overall strategy. The existence of several
different non interoperable, non standard electrocnic toll systems in the Klang
Valley serves a warning of what can go wrong.

Malaysia is in an excellent position to benefit from the experience of other

countries in planning and application of ITS. It is most important not to
'reinvent the wheel' but capitalise on world wide experience to develop and
apply ITS to suit the local needs.

In common with almost all countries, Malaysia suffers from three main
transport problems:
• Efficiency - particularly traffic congestion but also inefficient operation of
commercial and public transport services;
• Safety - affecting all road users but particularly pedestrians and motorcycle
riders;
• Pollution - road based transport is one of the main causes of urban air
pollution and this is greatly increased by traffic congestion.

Overcoming each of these problems is of vital importance to ensure that

economic development can continue in line with VISION 2020.

For successful implementation, a three step approach is necessary:

• Preparation of a Conceptual Design which includes a careful analysis of

the problems and proven ITS potential solutions, detailing both costs and
benefits. It must also identify traffic management and other improvements
necessary to maximise benefit;
• Careful implementation with maximum technology transfer to local
companies and organisations;
• A full evaluation of the benefits and lessons to be learned that can be
applied in the next application.

The ITS system on the LDP is a good example of local international

coorperation. The Variable Massage Signs shown above are locally produced
to international standards and interfaced to and controlled by imported
software, running on a locally manufactured computer.

One problem with bus services is that someone waiting at the bus stop has no
information about when the next bus will come. In order to increase bus
usage, provision of dynamic information at bus stops can be valuable. This
requires buses to be equipped with some location equipment and this also
can be used by the operator to control the service to ensure that it is reliable.
From the review of currently available ITS technology and systems, the figure
above summarises the main ITS applications particularly appropriate for
immediate application in Malaysia.

As with all computer related technologies, new techniques are being

introduced all the time and it will be necessary to constantly review
developments and modify and expand the list of recommended applications.

SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS

ITS can be considered as a subset of IT and multimedia technologies. As

such, it is of great importance for Malaysia that, not only are the direct
benefits of ITS implementation obtained but Malaysia takes its place as a
manufacturer and exporter of appropriate technologies and systems.

It is thus necessary to increase the understanding of ITS in Malaysia and

benefits that can be achieved. This should be done by introducing carefully
planned ITS schemes which maximise local input and technology transfer
from foreign experts and suppliers.

To maximise the potential benefits of ITS and establish Malaysia as a provider

of systems and equipment, it is recommended that are Fast Track approach is
adopted. This can best be achieved as follows:

• Implement carefully selected demonstration schemes;

• Maximise local content and involvement, consistent with ensuring high
quality;
• Maximise technology transfer and involvement of local companies and
staff.

To achieve the necessary direction and coordination between various parties

involved, it is recommended that an ITS Strategic Council be formed under
the leadership of the Ministry of Works. This Council should include all
concerned agencies to be the representatives, but care must be taken to
ensure that it is not cumbersome.

Many of the benefits of ITS are to the community with limited potential for
direct revenue collection. It is recommended that Government encourage
innovative approaches from the private sector and provide support with
central funding for ITS development and implementation. This should act a
stimulus to ensure rapid deployment.

As a further stimulus, it is recommended that a number of carefully controlled

Demonstration Projects be undertaken. These should cover the main areas
recommended above for initial implementation. They should also be designed
to include both government and private sector participation where appropriate
to break current i nstitutional barriers.

Proper control of funding and implementation of the demonstration projects is

vital, but should be designed to stimulate and not constrict. It is recommended
that requirements for project approval and funding should include:

• Before final approval, a full Conceptual Design and Implementation Plan

be carried out. This should clearly identify costs and expected benefits;
• Expert control of design and implementation to ensure a high standard;
• An appropriate blend of local and international systems and expertise to
ensure successful implementation and maximise technology transfer;
• After implementation, an expert and independent before and after
evaluation report to be produced comparing the benefits achieved with
those anticipated and including guidelines and lessons for the future.