"ONE MALAYSIA' Concept

The Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) wishes to suggest to Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Razak to introduce and implement the idea of Safe Communities in line with the “One Malaysia” concept.

While supporting the “One Malaysia” concept the MCPF is of the view that “One Malaysia” should also incorporate issues concerning safety and security for all Malaysians.

A “One Malaysia” must also mean a safe and secure Malaysia – a nation free not only from crime but also from unwanted accidents and man-made disasters.

The definition of a “Safe Community” is one in which people live, work and play safely and healthily. This can be achieved when private and public sectors work in partnership to improve the safety and health of the people in the community.

Besides improving the lives of individuals, safe communities create many common benefits, such as improved safety for the public, less crimes, improved productivity and competitiveness, lower health-care costs, and a reduction in other social expenditure.

Developing a safety culture is best achieved through building a safe community. The Safe Community approach provides a focal point for the community leaders, employers and employees of large and small enterprises, policemen, firemen, safety professionals and those who are keen in community affairs, to build a better community where they work or live.

A safe and healthy workplace will benefit the enterprises not only in reduced injuries and cost of accidents, it also enhances the productivity and workers’ morale.

A comfortable and safe environment for schools and hospitals will improve the safety of school children and the effective delivery of services; a community where safety culture is strong and concern for others is high will also benefit the government administration.

The Safe Community Program takes reference from the community development and outreaching approach. It is an integrated development of safety culture in the community that encompasses work safety, school safety, recreational safety, crime prevention and others. Effective programs can be realised through the synergy of safety & health initiatives of different community groups, local corporations, businesses, organizations, associations, schools, health care providers, government agencies and other service groups.
Other than the economy, crime has become an issue of major concern to all Malaysians. As crimes continue to occur, more so in view of the economic downturn and given the fact that law enforcement alone is inadequate to tackle crime, the government has to promulgate effective social policies and programmes to prevent and control criminal activities.

Policy makers, academicians, non-government organisations and the various strata of society need to stand up to the challenge of making our cities, towns and villages safe and liveable for everyone.