Hand in Hand Against Crime

Similar stories revolving community activities, patrolling with the police to make our community a safer place for all. From the Star, 16th September 2008.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

While walking alone at night is dangerous, having a group of police with you in their illuminating vests sure makes you feel safer.

As part of the Community Policing Programme, Damansara Kim residents will join the police when they patrol the neighbourhood.

According to Damansara Utama police station deputy head Sjn Mejar Jipa Langob, the programme will help the public to know more about the police’s role and job scope, hence it will lessen misunderstandings between both parties.

“It also enables the police and the community to work hand in hand to combat crime and foster ties between us (the police and the community),” he said.

At a recent patrolling session, there were 22 policemen patrolling with the residents, said Sergeant Tony Yap from the Section 8 police station.

Some came in patrol cars, some on bikes while others walked and interacted with the residents.
“The main objective is not to catch criminals during patrolling but to let them know that people are looking out for the neighbourhood,” he said.

Rukun Tetangga committee member Tan Eng Cheong, who took on the task of co-ordinating volunteers for the neighbour watch, said there were three zones in SS20 Damansara Kim.

“We are starting from the Southern Zone first, then we’ll get residents from the Central Zone and Northern Zone,” he said.

Residents met in a restaurant in the neighbourhood before splitting into a few groups for patrolling.

Tan said numbers gave strength hence he hoped that more residents would take part in the patrols.

“It’s like a member get member scheme, where we get more residents to volunteer for the patrol through residents.

“This is the second patrol we have. Last week, there were only five residents and tonight it has increased to 18,” he said.

Tan advised those who want to take part in the patrols to not bring handbags to avoid being victims of snatch thefts.

“Just place your valuables in your pocket or in a waist pouch,” he said.

The patrols not only promote awareness on safety but it also help in fostering the community spirit.

During patrols, it was an opportunity for residents to interact with their neighbours whom they rarely communicate with due to busy lifestyles.

SS20 resident Lee Teong Hooi and his wife, Chow Siew Mee, took along their children to the patrolling session to show their support.

“We should start them young and teach them about safety, loving the neighbourhood and being part of the community,” Chow said.

“The community policing programme is what we have always wanted. It is a chance for us to know our neighbours better,” he said.