PETALING JAYA: Simple measures like better parking choices and added security can go a long way in deterring catalytic converter theft, which stakeholders say is becoming more noticeable in Malaysia due to demand for cheaper vehicle parts.
Vehicle Theft and Accident Reduction Council of Malaysia (VTAREC) general manager Mas Tina Abdul Hamid said vehicle owners could reduce the risk of such thefts by simply increasing visibility, security and difficulty.
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She said that among the most effective ways to deter catalytic converter theft was through the installation of catalytic converter guards or shields over the component.
These guards are available on various e-commerce platforms with prices based on vehicle models.
“This makes it physically harder and more time-consuming for thieves.
“The longer time required to commit the theft discourages criminals,” she said.
VTAREC is a council that comprises the police, Customs Department, Transport Ministry, General Insurance Association of Malaysia, Malaysia Takaful Association, Puspakom, Association of Malaysian Loss Adjuster and the Malaysian Automotive Association.
Parking locations, Mas Tina said, also plays a critical role in prevention.
She noted that vehicles parked in open areas outside residential compounds were particularly vulnerable, especially if the areas were poorly lit or they lack security or surveillance systems.
“Additional protective measures include installing alarm systems or vibration sensors that can alert the owner to tampering, as well as parking in well-lit areas or locations covered by closed-circuit television camera systems.
“There is also the option to mark or engrave catalytic converters, as this can deter resale and assist authorities in identifying stolen parts,” she suggested.
She said catalytic converter theft is a relatively new and emerging trend in Malaysia.
This, she said, was largely driven by the high value of precious metals contained within the component.
“Although such cases are still less prevalent compared to other forms of theft, enforcement observations indicate that they are becoming more noticeable, especially in urban and semi-urban areas.
“The reason these parts are targeted in Malaysia is largely due to strong demand for cheaper alternatives to new original equipment manufacturer parts.”
She said the theft of vehicle parts in general, was strongly linked to demand for affordable replacement components in the local automotive repair market.
“Body parts such as front and rear doors, bumpers, grilles, and side panels are frequently targeted because they are in high demand following road accidents, which are relatively common.
“These parts can be repainted and resold as secondhand items.
“In addition, components such as headlights, taillights and side mirrors are also attractive to thieves due to their high cost when purchased new, aside from their ease of removal,” she said.
Mas Tina said components such as engine control units, airbags as well as entire engines or gearboxes might also be targets in more organised theft operations.
“These activities are often associated with syndicates that steal vehicles and dismantle them in so-called ‘chop shops’, where individual parts are sold into the secondhand market,” she added.
