KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 10 — Efforts to ensure a safe environment for the people and the business community will continue to be emphasised as the government focuses on recruiting more security personnel, building new infrastructure and acquiring the latest equipment and assets. 

According to the Economic Report 2014/2015, one of the measures to enhance safety is the installation of 496 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in the areas of jurisdiction of 25 local authorities, including in Sabah and Sarawak, by November this year. 

The report said the police force had also procured 1,800 units of high-speed motorcycles at a total cost of RM34 million for the Police Motorcycle Patrol Unit to be distributed nationwide. 

“An additional 200 units will be delivered by the end of 2014,” said the report, released in conjunction with the tabling of the Budget 2015 in Parliament by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who is also Finance Minister, today.

The report said funds had also been set aside for the construction of five district police headquarters, namely in Pasir Mas, Kota Star, Johor Baru Selatan, Nusajaya and Sipitang, as well as two new police stations in Pengerang, Johor and Tongod, Sabah. 

In addition, there will be the acquisition of additional defence equipment such as offshore patrol vessels, aircraft and armoured vehicles by the Malaysian Armed Forces to reinforce the country’s security.

The report said the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom), established in 2013 as a result of the infiltration of terrorists in Lahad Datu, was enhanced through increased deployment of security personnel, supply of the latest equipment as well as building of new police stations.

“ESSCom will be strengthened with additional security personnel at various levels, including the establishment of Army Infantry Brigade,” it said.

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, it noted, would also be equipped with the latest vessels, aircraft and support equipment as the agency was tasked with monitoring the Malaysian maritime zone and high seas.

“Apart from strengthening national security, these measures will instil confidence among the people, business community and tourists, thus enabling economic activities to flourish,” the report said. — Bernama