NECF Malaysia "For Your Intercession" No. 49, 2006-9-12 www.necf.org.my
“War on Crime”
Crime in Malaysia has, in these few years, shifted towards more felonies: murder, rape-cum-murder, snatch theft-cum-murder, kidnap-cum-murder, armed robberies and extortion. The New Straits Times reports that the country sees a 24% leap in violent crimes (8 Sep 06). The capital Kuala Lumpur has registered 19% rise. Climate of fear has begun to strike the public’s sense of security.
Many factors for the increase in crime rate have been suggested, e.g. the lack of manpower (approx. 1 police for every 300 citizens), the incompetence of our public protectors, lack of initiatives among the local authorities, economic downturn, drug addiction, unemployment, the growing number of dysfunctional families, public’s apathetic attitudes, and the influx of illegal immigrants. Just recently, the Kajang Police Department was criticized for not being effective and proactive in an investigation of a rape case. The victim was reported to have been stalked and threatened by the rapist.
In the government’s effort to make Malaysia a safer place, the police force receives a financial boost of RM4.9 billion allocation under the Budget 2007. The money will be used in the purchasing of 2,000 patrol car, recruitment of 3,000 new police constables, installation of close-circuit television in crime-prone areas, allowance and incentives increment, and etc. However, the little increment for our police officers with meager salaries seems to neither meet the high cost of living nor compensate them for the high risk at job.
On Sept 12, Tan Sri Musa Hassan succeeded Tan Sri Mohd Bakri Omar as Inspector-General of Police (IGP). It has been reported that the new IGP is a humble man with good credentials, known for his no-nonsense approach and strict work ethics. We pray that the 92,000-police force under new leadership will be more efficient, competent, impartial and transparent.
It is true that the police alone cannot make Malaysia a safer place. It also involves greater public awareness, cooperation, and vigilance in crime prevention.
Pray
- The new IGP, Tan Sri Musa Hassan: man of integrity, wisdom and excellence in leadership.
- Police officers: courage and protection at work, honesty and passion to serve the public, greater incentives and increment in salary, blessings for their families (see also Prayer booklet “Pray for Malaysia” p31).
- War on crime: Greater cooperation among the police force, local authorities and the public in creating public awareness and in any citizen-safety project; more job openings and effective drug rehabilitation; churches come together to launch ‘Prayer Watch’ in their respective community region or towns (see also Prayer booklet “Pray for Malaysia” p32).
(All prayer points serve as guidance only)
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