KUALA LUMPUR: The training module for security guards will be improved following the recent Setia Alam mall shooting, says Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
He emphasised the need for enhanced training measures in light of the incident.
"The recent Setia Alam shooting has opened a new dimension regarding mall security, as the lives of the public were threatened.
"Following the incident, I immediately held discussions with associations involved in the nation’s security guard industry.
"They have welcomed and are prepared to accept proposals to improve training modules for security personnel," he said while delivering his ministerial reply on the motion of thanks on the Royal Address in the Dewan Rakyat on Thursday (Feb 20).
The shooting occurred at around 10pm on Feb 8 at the Setia Alam mall.
A foreign cleaner was shot in the leg and buttocks before the suspect proceeded to the mall’s P2 level, firing several shots at a sliding door. He then moved to the car park and fired at the vehicle of a patron fleeing the scene.
The suspect later hijacked another car and forced the driver to drop him off near the Pandamaran exit of the Kesas Expressway.
He was eventually killed in a shootout with the police at a hotel in Pulau Ketam at around 3am on Tuesday (Feb 18).
Regarding proposals to enhance security guard training, Saifuddin said improvements would cover both theoretical and practical aspects.
"This includes immediate actions security guards must take when an untoward incident occurs.
"It will also define their responsibilities and duties before the arrival of the police," he said.
He added that enhancements would also cover areas such as suspect detention, patrolling, restricted area control, and effective communication.
At present, Saifuddin noted, basic security is provided by the police.
He explained that security guidelines for guards are issued by local councils, the fire department, and directives from the Inspector-General of Police.
The Home Ministry, he added, is primarily responsible for issuing licences to approximately 1,200 security guard companies.
