Tanjong Batu rep holds dialogue on crime, traffic issues with Bintulu police

BINTULU (Feb 12): Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang held a dialogue with Bintulu police chief Supt Nixon Joshua Ali and his team on Wednesday to address pressing community issues and identify workable solutions.

Issues highlighted included traffic congestion during peak hours, theft and vandalism of public amenities such as drain covers, cases involving stolen cables and water meters, and the need for tighter monitoring of second-hand scrap dealers.

Pang noted that although the theft of drain covers may seem trivial, it could be a serious safety risk for both motorists and pedestrians.

He said cable and water meter theft not only disrupts public utilities but also impacts the daily lives of residents.

“As long as there is demand, there will be supply,” he said and stressed the importance of addressing the issue at its root.

Among the proposals put forward were stricter requirements for scrap metal dealers, including the need to produce proper documentation when purchasing metal items, as a measure to curb theft.

Pang also called for increased traffic patrols and better traffic management during peak periods, a review of enforcement procedures to minimise inconvenience to the public, and upgrading Bintulu to a Level A Police District to enhance manpower and resource allocation.

He also presented mandarin oranges and dates to the Bintulu police for Chinese New Year and Ramadan.