KUALA LUMPUR: The recent spate of violent crimes, including two fatal shootings in the nation’s capital that claimed three lives in just a few days, has sparked serious concern among Malaysians over public safety and security, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.

The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said while these incidents are believed to be isolated and do not suggest a broader threat to the city’s overall safety, they have nonetheless drawn attention to a critical national issue — arms smuggling through Malaysia’s porous borders.

“In response, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, who is retiring as Inspector-General of Police, has issued a directive to tighten border control measures.

“We welcome this move and fully support the IGP’s initiative and urge swift implementation of the enhanced security measures,” he said when contacted on Friday (June 20).

Lee said that while no country is entirely free of crime, the presence of illegal firearms and the ease with which they may be brought into the country must be addressed decisively.

“As long as criminal tendencies exist, crime will persist. What matters is how effectively we respond,” he said.

Building on the IGP’s directive, Lee proposed several key strategies to bolster national security, including the deployment of advanced surveillance technologies.

“The use of drones, thermal imaging, and other advanced tools at the nation’s borders is needed to detect and deter smuggling activities.

“The authorities should also enhance collaboration with Malaysia’s northern neighbour, including joint patrols and intelligence sharing to intercept illicit arms trafficking,” he lamented.

Additionally, Lee also called for a review of existing laws to close loopholes related to arms smuggling, along with harsher penalties for offenders.

“Furthermore, initiatives to educate the public on the dangers of arms smuggling and to encourage reporting of suspicious activities must be increased,” he added.