Let’s aim for 100% recovery of missing persons

The recent statement by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail regarding missing persons in Malaysia highlights the ongoing challenges in public safety.

While the Minister notes a stable annual average of approximately 900 cases from 2020 to mid-2024 with a high recovery rate of 85% to 90%, concerns persist over the portrayal of these statistics.

Every case of a missing person due to abduction, kidnapping, dementia, or human trafficking is deeply concerning, regardless of reported figures.

The average of 900 cases annually is still staggering as it translates to approximately 75 cases per month or 2.46 cases per day, with potentially higher numbers of unreported cases.

While absolute prevention may be impossible, there is room for improvement. Wanita MCA urges authorities to aim for 100% recovery and prevention efforts.

The “stability” in reported cases should not lead to complacency; Even one missing person is one too many, and we must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing this issue.

The recent successful rescue of 6-year-old Albertine Leo Jia Hui within 48 hours, with five suspects apprehended so far, highlights police investigative capabilities and effective inter-state cooperation. The government's commitment to swift response and public updates after 24 hours is crucial. Wanita MCA is confident that this diligence by the police also extends to locating missing persons cases unreported in the press, minus the glare of mainstream and social media attention, or unresolved cold case files.

Moving forward, we call on the government to enhance strategies for preventing and managing missing persons cases, including bolstering community awareness, improving coordination among agencies, ensuring effective implementation of existing protocols nationwide, added surveillance along any porous borders be it on land, rivers or maritime lanes, and sharing of information and cooperation with transborder intelligentsia.

Safeguarding the wellbeing and security of all Malaysians, especially vulnerable groups like children and the elderly, remains paramount. As concerned citizens, we must promptly report any missing person cases and support efforts to reunite families. Together, we can work towards minimising these distressing incidents and fostering a safer environment for everyone in Malaysia.

Tee Hooi Ling

Wanita MCA National Deputy Chairperson

Wanita MCA Selangor Chairperson