In a significant move to enhance emergency response capabilities, Telekom Malaysia and the Malaysian Government have recently signed an agreement to implement the Next Generation Emergency Services 999 (NG999).
This advanced system is poised to replace the existing Malaysian-Emergency Responses 999 (MER S999) and revolutionise emergency services across the nation, according to MalaysianWireless.
MERS 999 is an integrated system combining the emergency services of five agencies which consists of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia, Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and Department of Civil Defence (DCD) in one ICT platform to handle and channel calls and emergency information through one number, that is 999.
The NG999 system aims to seamlessly integrate several cutting-edge technologies into emergency incident handling. These include:
- Web-Based Digital Maps: By incorporating web-based digital maps, emergency responders gain real-time visual information about incident locations. This feature enables quicker decision-making and optimised resource allocation.
- Caller ID and Geolocation Services: The NG999 system leverages caller ID and geolocation services to pinpoint the exact location of emergency callers. This information is crucial for dispatching the nearest responders promptly.
- Mobile App: With the integration of mobile app, NG999 allows registered users to send texts, photos, and videos during emergencies. This accelerates the delivery of critical information to emergency services, enabling faster response times.
NG999 harnesses the power of data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance emergency assistance. By analysing patterns and trends, emergency responders can make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively.
The AI-driven system ensures that critical moments receive swift attention, potentially saving lives.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching emphasised the expansion of NG999 to over 800 locations, effectively doubling the current coverage.
This broader reach ensures that information reaches the nearest emergency agency operations centre promptly. NG999 operates 24/7, providing round-the-clock support to those in need.
NG999 integrates cellular technology up to 5G, Automatic Number Identification (ANI), Automatic Location Identification (ALI), and Advanced Mobile Location (AML).
These features work together to accurately track callers’ locations, enabling precise dispatch and reducing response times.
The NG999 initiative aligns with international standards set by the European Emergency Number Association’s NG112 and the National Emergency Number Association’s NG911 in North America.
