RESIDENTS must play an active role in safeguarding their neighbourhoods and preventing untoward incidents, in addition to the regular patrols carried out by the police, said Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng.
Speaking at a press conference at Greenlane Heights Block H along Jalan Gangsa in Seri Delima today regarding a series of incidents involving objects being thrown from high-rise buildings, Tan outlined what she described as the ‘three Es’ approach to addressing the issue.
“The first E is education. We need to continuously educate the public. While the dangers of such actions may seem like common sense, there are still irresponsible individuals who engage in this behaviour.
“We want people to understand that throwing objects from high-rise buildings can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. It can also cause damage to property and create fear among residents, ultimately affecting the safety and well-being of the community.
“That is why my team and I have produced awareness posters highlighting the dangers, consequences and penalties associated with such acts,” she said.
Tan stressed that the act of throwing objects from high-rise buildings is far more serious than simple vandalism.
“This is not merely an act of vandalism. It is an offence under the law and is punishable accordingly.
“We encourage members of the public to become our eyes and ears. Education is the first step, but it must be complemented by collective community awareness and responsibility,” she added.
The second E, she said, is enforcement, which plays a crucial role in deterring offenders.
“Besides seeking the cooperation of the police to conduct patrols, local residents also have a responsibility to help identify possible patterns linked to these incidents.
“They can observe whether there are recurring trends in terms of timing or the types of objects being thrown. By working together, we may be able to trace those responsible.
“Enforcement is extremely important in ensuring such incidents do not continue,” she said.
The third E she said is engineering, which involves strengthening security measures and infrastructure.
“We need to ensure there are sufficient closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in strategic locations, and most importantly, that they are functioning properly.
“I have been informed that CCTV cameras are already installed here, but unfortunately, they have not been able to help identify the specific unit involved.
“Therefore, I believe CCTV cameras need to be positioned at the right locations and angles to enable more effective monitoring and evidence gathering,” she said.
Elaborating on the incidents at Greenlane Heights Block H, Tan revealed that the latest case occurred on May 18 when several bricks were allegedly thrown from the building, damaging two parked vehicles below.
“This is not the first time such incidents have occurred. On May 18, several bricks were thrown from this block and landed on two vehicles parked in the area, causing damage.
“However, this was not an isolated case. Similar incidents have occurred several times before, and not only at Block H.
“Just nearby is Greenlane Park Condominium. Two days ago, I met with residents there and found that they are facing the same problem of objects being thrown from high-rise buildings,” she said.
Tan said police reports have been lodged and investigations are currently underway.
“These cases are now under police investigation. Reports have been made, and police officers have visited the locations to conduct inquiries, including yesterday.
“Although the matter is now being investigated by the police, I felt it was necessary to hold this press conference because this issue cannot be taken lightly.
“It directly concerns the safety of residents and the wider community.
“Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities have been reported in the incidents here so far, and only property damage has occurred.
“Nevertheless, this is a very serious matter. I view it with great concern and hope that those responsible will be identified and brought to justice as soon as possible,” Tan said.
Story by Riadz Akmal