Malaysia mulls Chinese-style surveillance to curb crime in hotspots

Malaysia is contemplating the adoption of Chinese-style policing technology, such as high-definition closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance and facial recognition systems, to enhance crime prevention in high-risk areas and tourist hotspots, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The Deputy Prime Minister discussed this proposal with China's Minister of Public Security, Wang Xiaohong, during a recent meeting, with cooperation in combating transnational crime also on the agenda.

China's approach involves utilizing technology to monitor and identify criminal activity in hotspots, enabling quicker enforcement without depending solely on the presence of security personnel. Zahid mentioned that CCTV cameras placed about 50 meters apart in high-risk areas in China allow authorities to identify suspects and make arrests within less than four minutes after a crime occurs.

Malaysia has previously tested a similar modern policing project in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, and in tourist hotspots like Bukit Bintang, which has reportedly reduced bag-snatching incidents. However, budget limitations are seen as a hurdle to expanding the technology nationwide. Zahid stated that he would present the results of his visit to a Cabinet meeting to evaluate the technology's potential application in high-crime areas and tourist hotspots, possibly targeting only these specific locations if financial resources permit.