PETALING JAYA: Keep your vehicles locked and parked in well-lit areas if you are leaving them behind for Hari Raya celebrations, the Vehicle Theft Reduction Council of Malaysia (VTREC) said.
VTREC coordinator Mas Tina Abdul Hamid said using anti-theft devices like car steering locks or gear locks can also deter thefts.
“Ensure the cars are locked, even for short periods. Especially if they are being left behind for several days when travelling back to hometowns for Hari Raya celebrations.
“For motorcycles, use multiple high-quality locks to protect the vehicle. This can include using brake, gear and tyre locks to make the motorcycle an immovable object,” she said when contacted.
Owners can also install GPS trackers which enable real-time tracking to swiftly recover a stolen vehicle, she added.
Key fobs should be kept in a Faraday pouch to prevent the car’s signal from being hacked, she said.
The Faraday pouch is an enclosed, sealed unit which prevents signals from being sent and received.
For those travelling to unfamiliar locations, Mas Tina said it is best to be aware and mindful of the surroundings.
“Always prioritise parking in well-lit areas that have good surveillance at night. Avoid isolated areas,” she said.
“If you plan on sleeping in your vehicle at rest stops during travel breaks, make sure to turn off the engine, lock the car and ensure the surroundings are safe,” she added.
These precautions, she said, can help protect both vehicle owners and their vehicles when travelling.
“While there is no guarantee of preventing the vehicle from being stolen, it will make things much harder for thieves.
“The measures also go a long way towards keeping the vehicle safe,” she said.
