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Dr Raymond warns that arrests alone cannot solve the problem. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KOTA KINABALU (Jan 9): The recurring theft of electrical cables, telecommunication lines, solar equipment and other critical infrastructure has become a persistent and serious problem in Sabah, particularly in rural villages and semi-urban communities.
These incidents have caused repeated power outages, communication disruptions, public safety risks, and significant financial losses for the government, utility providers, and residents.
BIMP-EAGA Business Council (Malaysia-Sabah) chairman Dr Raymond Alfred warned that arrests alone cannot solve the problem.
“As long as there is uncontrolled market demand for cables and certain metals, theft will continue. This is not just a criminal issue — it reflects regulatory and governance gaps within the scrap metal supply chain,” he said in a statement.
He proposed mandatory registration and certification for all scrap metal buyers and suppliers in Sabah.
“Only licensed operators should be allowed to trade, with a centralised database accessible to enforcement agencies,” he said.
He called for strict restrictions prohibiting the purchase or sale of electrical and telecommunication cables, solar materials, and utility components, regardless of claimed legality.
“Without a robust database and consistent enforcement, these materials will remain prime theft targets, often by individuals under desperation or substance influence.
“Rural communities suffer repeated disruptions, and public funds are drained for repairs,” he said.
Dr Raymond also recommended classifying solar panels, electrical poles, substations, and other utility assets as high-risk materials, banning them from trade in the scrap market.
“Possession or transaction without explicit authorisation should be treated as a serious offence,” he said.
He urged that all transactions comply with clearly defined standard operating procedures (SOPs), including full traceability, seller verification, mandatory transaction records, audits, and strict penalties such as licence revocation for non-compliance.
“This is not intended to hinder legitimate businesses, but to restore integrity to the scrap metal industry.
“A regulated market strengthens the economy, while an unregulated one enables crime and infrastructure sabotage,” he said.
Dr Raymond called on the Sabah government to coordinate local authorities, law enforcement, utility providers, and industry stakeholders to implement this framework without delay.
“Preventive governance through market control is far more effective and cost-efficient than reactive enforcement.
“Critical infrastructure security is a fundamental right. Bold action is needed now to stop this cycle of theft and loss,” he added.
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