Dangerous: Bladed weapons can be purchased online for as low as RM5, with no age verification required. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Possessing and carrying weapons in public areas is against the law, says a former top police officer.
Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation senior vice-chairman Datuk Seri Ayub Yaakob said such an act is prohibited.
“It is against the law to be in possession of, or carrying weapons, including sharp ones, in public areas.
“Those who commit such crimes can be investigated under the Corrosive and Explosive Substances and Offensive Weapons Act 1958,” he added.
Ayub, who is a former director of the Bukit Aman Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department, also said carrying weapons in schools poses a great danger to students and teachers.
“In the case of schools, their administrators and security must conduct stringent checks so that anyone on school grounds is not in possession of any weapon.
“The safety of those studying or working in schools must always be prioritised,” Ayub said.
He also urged school administrators to be vigilant and monitor their students to prevent violent crimes.
“Spot checks on the students’ bags must be done to ensure they are not carrying any weapons,” he added.
At the same time, he said, parents must also play their part by being aware of their children’s activities.
“If they are facing any problems or going through any issues, any solution or prevention begins at home.
“I hope parents will also monitor their children to ensure that they are not involved in any unhealthy activities,” he said.
On the online sale of sharp weapons, including knives, Ayub urged the authorities to regulate their sales.
“A thorough study should be conducted to ensure that weapons do not end up in the hands of children or the wrong people.
“If the relevant ministry comes up with a regulation, then the enforcement should also be stringent; otherwise, it will not be effective,” he said.
