In referring to the alarming concern on public safety recently, Gerakan Head of Central Bureau on Environment, Safety and Quality of Life Dr. Cheah Soon Hai expressed his concern over the issue. Dr. Cheah pointed out that there are some places throughout the country especially Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Kedah where there were quite a few snatch thefts cases reported that caused panic and posed a threat to the safety of the people.

Dr. Cheah who is also Kedah Derga state assemblyman pointed out that although statistical reports from NKRA indicated that snatch theft cases reduced by 39% and at the same time there was also a report pointed that Malaysia is the safest country in Southeast Asia, however these data are mere superficial that failed to reflect the actual condition of the society.

“Recently, I received many complaints from the citizens, there were a few snatch theft cases happened in Alor Setar and as a result the people are now afraid to leave their home fearing they might be the next victim. Although the police said that the crime rate has reduced, but in reality many people opted not to make a report at the police station after their belongings were snatched because the reporting procedure was too complex therefore creating a false impression thinking that the society is generally safe,” said Dr. Cheah.

Dr. Cheah also added that the police should streamline the reporting procedure and help the people efficaciously by actively reducing crimes. At the same time, the police should step up patrols and curbing crimes so that the people would not be having a wrong impression that the police are merely active on keeping traffic, anti-vice and anti-drug but neglecting the pubic safety.

“The police should set up kiosk at crime-prone areas, whenever people encountering snatch theft, they can report immediately to the police so that swift actions can be taken,” said Dr. Cheah.

He also said that the police should reach out to the public to have a good understanding on the current situation of the society without blindly believe the data from the reports. At the same time, the police should do their best on keeping the safety of the society so that the people could live under a peaceful environment.