THE shift from parking coupons to digital systems is changing how motorists manage parking in urban areas, with the transition in Sarawak beginning gradually in the early 2020s as part of wider smart city and cashless initiatives by local authorities and becoming more noticeable between 2022 and 2024 following the rollout of mobile payment applications and camera-based enforcement systems in major centres, including Kuching.
Today, the system integrates mobile payment platforms, digital databases and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to monitor parking usage in real time, improving efficiency, reducing paper use and modernising parking management. Motorists can make payments through approved applications such as Pay & Go and Sarawak Pay, depending on the parking zone, by registering their vehicle number, selecting the parking location and duration, and completing payment via online banking or e-wallet services. Once payment is made, the transaction is recorded digitally, while enforcement cameras scan vehicle number plates to verify compliance. Users can also extend parking time remotely without returning to their vehicles.
Sarawak Tribune spoke to several motorists in Kuching to gather their views on the transition from parking coupons to digital parking systems. For many younger users, the system has improved convenience and reduced the hassle of using physical coupons. Administrative assistant Nur Afiqah Rozni, 25, said the digital system makes parking much easier during busy days.
“Now I just pay using my phone. It is more convenient, especially when I’m in a hurry,” she said.
Previously, drivers had to purchase parking coupons or search for parking machines, often requiring small cash and extra time. The digital system has simplified the process and reduced dependence on paper coupons.
However, Afiqah also shared concerns about technical issues. She recalled receiving a parking summon even though payment had already been made through the application.
“I once received a summon even though I had paid because the system did not record my transaction properly,” she said.
Such incidents highlight one of the main challenges of digital transformation ensuring that systems remain accurate and reliable at all times.
Meanwhile, 21 years old student Batrisyia Farzana Mohamad Fairoz said the system is especially useful when users do not have cash.
“If I don’t have cash, it used to be difficult to buy coupons. Now I can just pay using the app,” she said.
Still, she pointed out that internet connectivity remains a common problem.
“There are times when I cannot make payment because there is no internet connection. That can be stressful when you are rushing,” she added.
Batrisyia also expressed concern for elderly users who may not be familiar with mobile applications and digital payment systems.
“I think there should be simpler alternatives for senior citizens because not everyone is comfortable with technology,” she said.
Another user, 25 years old BSN teller Ummi Intan Syahirah Mohamad Zhamri, described the digital parking system as more practical compared to the traditional coupon method.
“Digital parking is more convenient because all payments can be made online. It saves time and is easier for users,” she said.
Ummi, who uses the system almost every day, said she has not experienced any major problems so far.
“So far, I have not faced any major issues. The system really makes things easier for users,” she added.
Apart from improving convenience, camera based enforcement systems have also changed the role of parking management. ANPR cameras can automatically detect vehicle number plates and monitor parking compliance without relying fully on manual enforcement officers.
Although this improves efficiency and reduces human error, some users have raised concerns about privacy, transparency, and errors in the system.
Local authorities have stated that the transition to digital parking is part of efforts to create a smarter and more sustainable city environment. By reducing paper coupon usage and improving traffic flow, the system is expected to support long term environmental goals.
As the system continues to develop, improvements such as stronger app performance, better technical support, and more user friendly alternatives may help address current limitations.
Despite the challenges, public response remains largely positive, especially among younger users who value speed, convenience, and flexibility in daily parking management.
