Chew: Make hiring of guards
stricter
19/09/2003 The Star
The Private Agency Act should be revised to make it compulsory for
security companies to impose stricter conditions when hiring security
guards, a backbencher said. Chew Mei Fun (BN – PJ Utara) said private
security companies could play a bigger role to ensure public safety, in
view of the shortage of police personnel. “However, the Act must be
reviewed to optimise the functions of the companies so that they can play
their role more effectively,” she said when debating the Supply Bill at
policy stage.
Among the conditions, Chew suggested, were for the guards to be Malaysian,
physically and mentally healthy, had gone through at least three to six
months’ intensive professional training and provided with an
identification card issued by the Home Ministry. “They should also undergo
training from time to time so that they are aware of the latest crime
trends.”
Currently, she said, anyone who did not have a criminal record and those
below 60 years could become a security guard. “Many residential areas are
now dependent on private security companies. However, the quality of the
guards is not monitored and controlled.”
On another issue, Chew said although the Government noted that many
Chinese youths had been reluctant to join the police force, many had
joined the Police Volunteer Reserve (PVR). “In my constituency, for
example, there were many young Chinese professionals who had joined the
PVR. “This shows that Chinese are interested in joining the force.
However, the low salary and limited chance of promotion are deterring
them,” she said. |
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