In Vietnam, as road conditions become increasingly chaotic, citizens can now earn up to RM900 for reporting traffic violators.

HANOI - 8 JAN - Vietnam is introducing a system to reward residents who report traffic offenders with up to five million dong (RM900), in an effort to bring order to its chaotic roads. The new rules allow informants to receive 10 per cent of the fines imposed on verified offenders, while ensuring their identities remain confidential. Since the beginning of the year, authorities have significantly increased fines for traffic violations such as running red lights and using mobile phones while driving, with penalties now reaching unaffordable levels for many drivers.

With around 77 million motorbikes and 6.3 million cars crowding Vietnam’s roads, traffic remains congested and hazardous. In 2024, road accidents claimed an average of 30 lives daily. The dramatic rise in fines has shocked many, pushing some drivers to strictly obey traffic rules. For instance, running a red light with a motorbike now costs over six million dong, six times the previous fine. Meanwhile, Hanoi police have reported instances of drivers breaking down in tears after receiving fines. Despite the hefty penalties, traffic violations and slow-moving congestion remain major challenges in the country.