KUALA LUMPUR: The installation of a modern, auto-tracking High Definition closed-circuit television (CCTV) system in 200 "hotspots" will help the authorities bring down crime rates, said the Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) today.
Its senior vice-chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said to ensure the system’s effectiveness, the CCTVs should be installed in high crime areas and accident-prone zones.
“It will enable the police and other enforcement agencies to identify, track down and nab suspects based on the real-time visuals,” he said, adding that the video feeds are channeled directly to the operations centre.
“The cutting-edge system has the ability to alert the authorities of abnormal behaviour and help prevent accidents or crime.
“The video recordings can also be used to help enforcement agencies investigate criminals, accidents or other relevant cases and bring the culprits to court,” said Lee in a statement today.
He, however, said the authorities should conduct a detailed study into similar initiatives adopted by other countries to ensure the system does not become obsolete.
Lee also said sufficient funds are needed to not only purchase the CCTV system, but also train the personnel involved in running and maintaining it.
“We do not want issues such as the lack of maintenance and financial support. The lack of funds will affect the system’s effectiveness. In the United Kingdom, for example, CCTV cameras in renowned landmarks were shut down in a heavily-criticised bid to save cash.
“We must also learn from other countries on how to ensure that the installation of the CCTV system will not encroach on people’s privacy or be misused by those with vested interests,” he added.
Meanwhile, criminologist Datuk Akhbar Satar said the installation of the CCTVs will help deter crime, as well as facilitate investigations.
“It will help in deterring crime as people will know that they are being watched. As for investigations, the authorities could review the crime through the recorded videos.
“But to achieve maximum investigation and deterrence value, the authorities must choose the installation places wisely,” he said, adding that those running the system must be well-trained
“It is also imperative that the government consult all law enforcement agencies, especially the police before the mechanism is put in place,” he added.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on Thursday said police will soon install an auto-tracking High Definition CCTV system in 200 hotspots nationwide to digitalise their assets and operations.
He had said the system would enable police to solve crime in 15 hours instead of 15 days.