PETALING JAYA: Parents or guardians should be held accountable for prank calls made by minors to the Fire and Rescue Department, says Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
“Prank calls are not a joke. They are a dangerous abuse of critical emergency services,” he said.
He said the authorities must adopt a firm and coordinated approach to address the growing number of prank calls to the department.
“This includes enforcing strict legal action. Impose stronger penalties such as heavier fines and custodial sentences for repeat offenders.
“Swift prosecution will send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated,” he said.
Last Sunday, Sunday Star reported that the department had to deal with an average of one prank call every other day.
There were 255 of such calls last year, which was an increase of about 30% compared with the previous year.
In a statement yesterday, Lee urged for caller identification systems to be strengthened and for strict enforcement of SIM card registration to prevent anonymity.
“The introduction of artificial intelligence-assisted call screening systems can help identify and filter suspicious or repeated prank calls, especially during high-risk hours, without compromising genuine emergency responses,” he said.
He suggested that nationwide awareness campaigns be held to ensure the public, especially youths, are aware of the dangers of prank calls.
“These campaigns should be conducted through schools, media platforms and community programmes.”
Lee pointed out that in life-threatening situations, even a few minutes’ delay could mean the difference between life and death.
“These irresponsible acts are not harmless mischief.
“They pose a serious threat to public safety, delay emergency response, and risk lives and property.
“Every false alarm diverts critical resources away from genuine emergencies.
“When fire engines are dispatched based on prank calls, real victims in distress may be left waiting.”
He said the public must take collective responsibility to ensure that emergency responders can perform their duties without unnecessary disruption.
“All Malaysians should act responsibly and uphold the integrity of our emergency services.
“Lives depend on it.”
