This was one of the decisions adopted at the 52nd meeting of the National Council for Local Government here, he told reporters after chairing the meeting.

The local authorities, in providing for the safe city, would have to implement a list of 23 measures which includes isolating pedestrian walkways from lanes for motorised vehicles, sprucing up areas of undergrowth and lighting up dark areas.

"The council emphasised how important it was for the local authorities to apply the safe city concept in terms of physical planning and approval of plans, including layout and building plans, so that there did not exist areas or places conducive for crime to take place. For example, a dark back lane or alley can be appealing to criminals, while undergrowth can be the hideaway for criminals and dadah addicts," he said.

Najib said these measures had been listed in a guide book published by the Town and Country Planning Department of the Housing and Local Government Ministry that had been distributed to all the local authorities.

He also said that one of the measures included installing closed circuit television in major towns.

The "safe city" concept comprised three strategies: design of the physical environment, social/community and education/public awareness activities, and reinforcement of target areas.

Najib said the meeting agreed to expedite the process to provide for officers and staff of local authorities to be transferred among the authorities as well as to the state government to provide better service at the local authorities.

"These people are not transferrable at present but we have agreed to
allow for promotions and a more dynamic environment that is not static," he said.

Therefore, he said, amendments would be made to the federal and state constitutions as well as the relevant Acts to effect this. - Bernama