Neighbourhood Watch chapter for Arang Road area launched

KUCHING (Oct 14): The Neighbourhood Watch N13-Arang Road Chapter has been officially launched, marking a significant step toward strengthening the safety, trust and cooperation among the residents in that area.

Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang officiated at the event, held at the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Batu Kitang office yesterday.

In his remarks, he emphasised community participation as the key to strengthening cooperation with the enforcement agencies in preventing crime and ensuring safer neighbourhoods.

On the Arang Road chapter, he said the movement would be gradually expanded to other areas within the Batu Kitang constituency.

“Agencies alone are not enough. That’s why I want to engage the community starting with Arang Road.

“Most importantly, I encourage the residents of Arang Road to volunteer and come forward to help us by becoming our eyes and ears.

“The banner will be up soon, with the contact details for those who wish to register (as Neighbourhood Watch members),” said Lo.

Zamrul Ahmad Tahil, a committee member of the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS), expressed his full commitment to the initiative.

“Our goal is to ensure the safety of residents. The information gathered from the community can be shared with other agencies to enable faster and more effective action,” he said.

Meanwhile, Padawan deputy police chief DSP Dr Daram Ruer said the programme could serve as an effective strategy to reduce crime rates.

“The more developed a place is, the higher the potential is for crime to strike. But by working together, we can significantly reduce criminal cases,” he said.

It is informed that the Arang Road Neighbourhood Watch is strongly supported by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF), UKPS, People’s Volunteers Corps (Rela) and Padawan Municipal Council (MPP).