Local gun control measures need beefing up, says Lee Lam Thye

KUALA LUMPUR: It is not just security at local airports that needs to be beefed up – gun control measures need to be enhanced too, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye (pic).

The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said this was timely in light of the recent shooting incident at KL International Airport's (KLIA) Terminal 1.

"While additional safeguards (at airports) are being contemplated, we must not forget one other important aspect – gun control.

"This is the source of the security problem.

"Although gun smuggling is relatively low in Malaysia compared to other countries due to our strict laws and enforcement, even a small number of cases can cause sizeable damage to lives and livelihoods," he said in a statement on Wednesday (April 17).

Lee said surveillance and patrols should be increased along our porous borders by deploying additional personnel using advanced detection technology.

"We must collaborate closely with our neighbouring countries to share intelligence and coordinate efforts.

"Additionally, there must be strict oversight to help prevent legally-owned firearms from falling into the wrong hands," he said.

Lee added that stricter enforcement and swift punishment is needed.

On enhancing airport security, Lee said this is a multi-faceted challenge that requires use of the latest technology.

"We should invest in state-of-the-art surveillance technology including facial recognition and advanced analytics to identify suspicious behaviour in real time.

"Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision have made significant strides in recent years, making it possible to identify potential threats in large groups of people.

"It can help with crowd management and other security issues in airports, stadiums and other public places where large numbers of people congregate," he said.

Lim said people should be educated on safety in public places with targeted public awareness campaigns, organising community workshops and other implementing safety measures at locations to have quick exit routes as well as for the public to remain alert and to report any suspicious behaviour.