If you own a mobile phone, chances are you’ve received a text message from your telco urging you to download the SaveME999 app, along with a reminder not to misuse it.

But what exactly is this app?

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According to reports, SaveME999 is part of the Next Generation Malaysian Emergency Response Services 999 (NG MERS 999). The app was developed through a collaboration between Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) and the Ministry of Communications.

SaveME999 aims to deliver faster, more accurate, and more effective responses to emergency calls. Although the app is said to replace the existing MERS 999 platform, this doesn’t mean the public can no longer call 999 to report an emergency.

In a joint statement by the Communications and Health Ministries together with TM, SaveME999 serves only as an additional option for users who need multimedia capabilities to report an emergency.

The app is described as part of an ongoing effort to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of Malaysia’s emergency response system.

What does the app require?

Once downloaded, the SaveME999 app requires users to complete a registration process before it can be used.

A username and password must be created, followed by an ID verification step, which requires the user to photograph their MyKad or another valid ID.

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What makes SaveME999 different from the existing MERS 999 is that the app supports video calls, text messaging, and multimedia-based alerts.

The app connects users directly with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Health Ministry, Fire and Rescue Department, Civil Defense Force, and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency. This means users can report a wide range of emergencies, from fires and crimes to humanitarian and maritime distress.

‘Slide To Call 999’ & ‘Slide To Make A Report’ options

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SaveME999 presents users with two options once they have logged in: ‘Slide To Call 999’ or ‘Slide To Send A Report’.

The ‘Slide To Call 999’ option lets users make a standard emergency call, while the ‘Slide To Send A Report’ option allows users to provide details including their current address and the type of incident. Users can also attach a voice note or video, which helps emergency responders with better context so they can deploy the right personnel and resources.

However, the app has some downsides…

While the app offers advanced features, it requires a stable internet connection to work.

There have also been reports of technical issues that resulted in the emergency hotline being unreachable.

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Gan Peck Cheng, a member of the Johor State Legislative Assembly, said she received a complaint from an old folks’ home that they were unable to reach the emergency line despite multiple attempts since Monday (November 17).

“They eventually had to use the SaveME app to lodge an emergency report. However, the return call only came nearly 50 minutes later."

"Even more worrying, the district hospital could not dispatch an ambulance because they had to wait for centralised instructions, something that had never been an issue before,” she said, as reported by The Star.

Featured Image Credit: , Malaysian Red Crescent Society