I agree with Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement director Senior Assistant Commissioner Mahamad Akhir Darus who said that those who settle their summonses within the stipulated period would be given a 50 percent discount. This is a way to encourage offenders to own up as quickly as possible. At least the discount being offered is for ‘early’ settlement.

In the past, periodic discounts were given to those who settle the summonses late. The longer they waited, the bigger the discounts. Many offenders slapped with summonses have routinely waited for a discount rather than trying to settle the summonses quickly.

In fact, this calls into questions the robustness of our enforcement system. First, did discounts for settling the summonses late make logical sense? Second, why are we not able to enforce compliance, ie once the summonses were issued, the offenders must pay up within the stipulated time? Third, were there consequences when these summonses remained unsettled after the stipulated time? Fourth, were there consequences when these summonses were not settled even after the discount period?

One of the cardinal principles of enforcement is that offenders must be made to face consequences imminently and without fear and favour. When enforcement agencies need to offer discount to settle long overdue summonses, it indicates breakdown of procedures. When offenders pay no heed to the overdue summonses, it shows lack of respect for the enforcement agencies.

The job of enforcement agencies is more than issuing summonses. They must ensure compliance. When summonses are not settled within the stipulated time, there must be more severe consequences awaiting them, not discounts. Indeed, giving discount for late settlement encourages bad habit and disrespect for authority. It is also unfair to those who settle their summonses on time and dutifully.

Some offenders are getting braver because we are all creatures of habit. It is not far-fetched to imagine that some may choose not to settle the summonses even with discounts thrown in. Why settle if they can get away with it?

All of us must respect enforcement if we want safety and orderliness on our roads and highways. Enforcement agencies must help us to inculcate that respect by being professional and diligent in their job, which includes proper management of summonses.