Don’t use amateur security guards, resident groups urged

KUALA LUMPUR: Residents’ associations should not arbitrarily appoint or train individuals as security guards without com­plying with regulations and obtaining approval from the ­relevant authorities, says the Malaysian Security Industry Association.

Its president Datuk Mohammad Ubaidillah Enam @ Iman said community security is not merely about collecting fees or obtaining services at the lowest possible cost, as it involves the lives, families, homes, and property of residents.

“Residents’ associations should appoint only security companies that are licensed and approved by the Home Ministry.

“Directly appointing indivi­duals or using unlicensed companies on grounds of cost is not the right approach,” he said in a statement yesterday.

Mohammad Ubaidillah said security services requires scree­n­ed of personnel and trained guards, proper supervision, and clear accoun­tability.

“We have received ­comp­laints regarding the use of unlicensed companies and individuals whose status and qualifications as security guards were questionable.

“Every complaint should be investigated and verified by the authorities, but this issue should not be taken lightly as security guards have access to residents’ routines, homes, and community security systems,” he said.

Mohammad Ubaidillah stressed that low cost should not be the main consideration when the safety and lives of residents are at stake.

“Legitimate security services involve salaries, statutory contributions, training, security screening, supervision, and the welfare of guards.

“Cutting costs without taking these factors into account could create greater risks for the community,” he said.

Mohammad Ubaidillah also called on local authorities to ­tighten monitoring and ensure licence statuses are checked before app­roving or renewing permits for guarded community schemes.

Enforcement against unli­cen­sed security companies and guards whose status are ques­­tionable should also be streng­thened, he added.

Mohammad Ubaidillah said the association is ready to work with local authorities, the Home Ministry, and residents’ associations to ensure communities receive professional and legitimate security services suited to local needs.

“If a system created in the name of security does not comply with basic safety requirements and regulations, the question is whe­ther it truly protects residents or merely gives them a false sense of security,” he said.