Why Sarawak’s vehicle tracking initiative deserves strong support

The traditional model of reacting after crimes occur is no longer sufficient in addressing organised crime, vehicle theft, drug trafficking, smuggling, human trafficking and terrorism.

From P Sundramoorthy

The Sarawak government’s introduction of a 24-hour vehicle tracking and real-time surveillance system is a bold, forward-looking initiative that deserves strong public support.

As explained by premier Abang Johari Openg, the primary objective is to enhance public safety and strengthen security rather than intrude into the privacy of law-abiding citizens.

From a criminological perspective, this represents a significant step towards modern, intelligence-led policing that prioritises crime prevention instead of merely responding after offences occur.

Crime prevention has evolved considerably over recent decades. Around the world, policing agencies increasingly rely on technology, data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI) and integrated surveillance systems to detect suspicious activities, identify emerging threats and respond rapidly to incidents.

The traditional model of reacting after crimes occur is no longer sufficient in addressing organised crime, vehicle theft, drug trafficking, smuggling, human trafficking and terrorism.

The proposed surveillance grid in Miri is therefore more than a technological upgrade. It is a practical investment in public security.

Continuous vehicle tracking enables law enforcement agencies to detect suspicious vehicle movements, identify stolen vehicles, monitor escape routes and respond more quickly during emergencies.

Every minute saved during an investigation or pursuit can make the difference between preventing further harm and allowing offenders to escape justice.

The principles of situational crime prevention argue that crime can be reduced by increasing the risks of offending while reducing criminal opportunities.

When offenders know that major roads are continuously monitored through integrated surveillance technology, the perceived likelihood of detection increases significantly.

This creates a powerful deterrent, particularly against organised criminal groups that rely heavily on mobility and anonymity.

Equally important is intelligence-led policing, now regarded as an international best practice. It relies on timely information, technological capability and coordinated decision-making to identify criminal patterns before offences escalate.

A real-time vehicle tracking system provides precisely the actionable intelligence required for modern policing.

Some concerns have been raised regarding privacy. However, public safety and individual privacy are not mutually exclusive.

Many developed countries successfully employ traffic cameras, automated number plate recognition (ANPR) systems and smart surveillance technologies within clear legal safeguards and oversight mechanisms.

The focus should therefore be on ensuring transparency, accountability, proper governance and strict access controls rather than rejecting technological innovation.

Law-abiding citizens should have little reason to fear systems designed to protect them from criminal victimisation.

Criminals have long exploited advances in technology to facilitate illegal activities. Organised crime syndicates now utilise encrypted communications, sophisticated logistics, digital financial transactions and international networks.

Law enforcement agencies cannot be expected to combat 21st century crime using 20th-century methods. Governments must continuously modernise policing capabilities to stay ahead of increasingly adaptive criminal organisations.

However, Sarawak’s initiative should not stop with the current project in Miri. The state government should progressively establish a fully integrated smart surveillance network covering all major highways and strategic roads throughout Sarawak.

Such a system should combine vehicle tracking technology with ANPR, high-definition CCTV, AI-assisted analytics, emergency response coordination and centralised command centres.

A statewide integrated system would significantly strengthen border security, particularly given Sarawak’s vast geography and extensive road network.

It would also improve responses to road accidents, missing persons cases, vehicle theft, kidnappings, illegal wildlife transportation, environmental crimes and other serious offences.

Beyond crime prevention, the system would enhance disaster management, emergency medical response and overall public administration.

Any expansion of surveillance technology must, however, be accompanied by robust legal safeguards.

Clear legislation governing data protection, access protocols, storage periods, independent oversight and accountability will help maintain public confidence.

Transparency is essential to ensure surveillance remains focused solely on legitimate public safety objectives and is never misused.

Ultimately, public safety remains one of the government’s fundamental responsibilities.

Citizens have the right to feel safe when travelling, conducting business and living within their communities.

Technology should therefore be viewed as an enabler of safer societies rather than an unnecessary intrusion, provided it is implemented responsibly and within the rule of law.

Sarawak has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation through digital governance and smart infrastructure. Its latest vehicle tracking initiative reflects that same vision.

If successfully implemented and expanded across the state’s major transportation corridors, Sarawak could become a national model for smart policing and evidence-based crime prevention.

Rather than debating whether technology should be used, the more constructive discussion is how it can be implemented responsibly, transparently and effectively.

Supported by sound legislation, professional policing standards and appropriate oversight, integrated surveillance systems are not a threat to society but a prudent investment in safer communities and a more secure future for all Sarawakians.

P Sundramoorthy is a criminologist at the Centre for Policy Research at Universiti Sains Malaysia. He is an FMT reader.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.