KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 29 — Bicycle-sharing provider oBike said today it is collaborating with the police in order to tackle vandalism cases against its bikes, such as being thrown into drains, hung on trees, or left on pedestrian walkways.
In an interview with state news agency Bernama, oBike marketing manager Elaine Chan said the company has also installed several new safety and security features on its bicycles.
“We always take the police’s advice in tackling this issue. Not just the police, but local authorities, hotels and transport agencies are also helping us by providing information about vandalism, that can be used as evidence for police reports,” Chan told Bernama.
Among the new features on its bicycles are permanently-fixed saddles, an upgrade on their smart locks, and an app that will inform the rider as soon as he or she exits the specified zones.
Chan also warned that those who are caught damaging oBike bicycles may be charged in court under Section 427 of the Penal Code with committing mischief that may be punishable with a maximum of five years jail, or fine, or both, if found guilty.
Chan said most of the vandalism against its bicycles was not done by its customers, and some had even stolen and brought the bicycles home.
There were also customers who parked the bicycles out of place, such as in private property, and those who did so can be deemed a thief and face legal action.
Chan said each oBike rider can receive 100 credit points when they register, and if they park correctly, they will be charged only a 50 sen per hour fee.
However for those who park improperly, 20 points will be deducted from their account, and they will further be charged a high fee.
Despite that, Chan said the amount of losses that oBike is facing due to vandalism is still “manageable”.
“Vandalism is not exclusive to any demographic, because it is part of human behaviour. What is important is the cooperation to reduce the rate of vandalism.” Chan said.
