PETALING JAYA: The policing strategies by the police that led to a significant progress in decreasing crime rates during festive seasons in the recent years should be implemented throughout the year, says criminologist Datuk Dr P. Sundramoorthy.
He said by analysing the factors that led to the decrease in crimes during the festive season, police can identify the strengths of their current strategies and capitalise on it to fight crime more effectively.
Sundramoorthy said this could include conducting thorough risk assessments and deploying increased police presence in high-risk areas, implementing targeted crime prevention programmes, and improving coordination as well as communication among law enforcement agencies.
“It is commendable that the crime index in Malaysia has shown a continuous decrease over the past three years, particularly during the festive season. The police should be praised for their efforts in implementing effective strategies that have contributed to this positive trend.
“However, it is important for the police to continuously review and fine-tune their strategies in order to further decrease crime cases not only during festive seasons but also all year long,” said Sundramoorthy, who is with Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Centre for Policy Research.
He said the police should continue to encourage initiatives involving community engagement to foster a stronger relationship with the public.
“This can establish a sense of trust and encourage citizens to report crimes and provide information that can help prevent criminal activities. By working together with local government agencies, community leaders, and businesses, resources can be pooled and comprehensive solutions can be developed to combat crime and address the root causes,” Sundramoorthy told The Star.
Malaysia Crime Victims Help Association founder and chairman Kuan Chee Heng said the efficiency of the police is evident as there are fewer complaints of crime in areas such as Puchong and Subang Jaya.
“Indeed, a job well done. The police should be commended for its efforts in fighting crime. There are lesser cases for sure,” said the community policing activist who is popularly known as Uncle Kentang for his charity work.
Kuan said with the current advancements in technology, where cars are installed with dashcams, homes with CCTVs, and with almost everyone carrying a smartphone camera, it is no longer a breeze for criminals to commit the street crimes or break-ins nowadays.
“Unless we let our guard down and give opportunity to criminals to take advantage of the situation, it is not easy for them to commit crimes these days as there are cameras everywhere. However, this has led to a shift and given rise to other non-violent crimes such as scams,” he said.
Selangor Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation senior member Eric Chew agreed that the police deserves a pat on their back for keeping the nation safe, especially during festive seasons.
“Our heartfelt appreciation to the police force for its success in reducing crime during Chinese New Year. These uncompromising policing by them are indeed worthy of praise. We are proud of our men and women in blue for their determination in making our streets and communities safe,” said the former MCPF Petaling Jaya chairman.
