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KUALA LUMPUR: Proper screenings are needed for off-campus accommodations, says Comm Datuk Hussein Omar Khan.
The Selangor police chief said off-campus accommodation must be for students only and not for other members of the public.
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“In short, universities must dedicate a block or area for students only, especially female ones.
“If an apartment or condominium used as an off-campus hostel also houses tenants who are members of the public, security will not be at an optimum level,” he told The Star yesterday.
He was commenting on the murder of 20-year-old Maniishapriet Kaur Akhara in her hostel room at a private university in Cyberjaya on June 24.
“On top of that, universities must ensure that security systems (at student accommodations), such as sufficient CCTV cameras, security guards and proper card access system, are available.
Expert views: (From left) Comm Hussein and Ayub. — Second photo taken from MCPF’s Facebook page
“It will greatly assist in security monitoring and ensuring the safety of students,” he said.
He said the police will engage the management of universities on the importance of having proper security measures at their off-campus accommodations.
“Safety of the students must not be taken for granted,” Comm Hussein stressed.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) senior vice-chairman Datuk Seri Ayub Yaakob said sufficient security guards and CCTV systems are needed to ensure students’ safety.
“Universities, especially private ones, must ensure the safety of all students.
“Having credible and sufficient security guards is a must, and having enough CCTV cameras will ensure adequate monitoring of the situation at student hostels and accommodations,” he said.
Universities and colleges should also consistently engage with the police to be aware of the latest crime trends and measures needed to enhance their security.
“That is why a regular security audit is needed to gauge whether a security system is sufficient or otherwise.
“The police and NGOs such as MCPF should be invited to conduct crime prevention awareness programmes so that students can also be alert and vigilant.
“When it comes to the safety of students, we must not take anything for granted,” Ayub said.
While focusing on the academic and business aspects, private universities should not sideline security, a former high-ranking police officer said, adding: “If a university hires a company to conduct maintenance or repairs, the personnel must be accompanied by a security officer when they are working, be it on campus or at student accommodations.”
