SAMARAHAN: In a proactive move to address rising social issues, the Majlis Pembandaran Kota Samarahan (MPKS) has collaborated with the Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) to install awareness billboards and buntings across public areas.
The initiative focuses on educating the public on critical concerns such as substance abuse, vaping and smoking prevention, bullying and harassment, risks of early sexual contact, and online scams.
MPKS chairman Datuk Peter Minos noted the importance of the campaign, especially with Kota Samarahan being the centre for many teenagers and young adults due to its many educational institutions.
With the anticipated population growth following the upcoming Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project, he stressed that crime prevention must expand accordingly.
“The rise in theft, vandalism, and drug abuse in this area is worrying.
“Social ills are no longer confined to urban spaces but spread to rural communities.
“Addressing these challenges requires collective action from all sectors of society,” said Minos.
Furthermore, MPKS and MCPF plan to engage with the community through town hall sessions, direct dialogues, and targeted school programmes.
Minos expressed gratitude to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for his ongoing support and commended MCPF for its three decades of dedication to crime prevention.
He added that MPKS’ vast jurisdiction and diverse communities require strong public-private partnerships to ensure a safer and more harmonious environment.
MPKS encouraged the public to play an active role in preventing crime and to foster a safer Kota Samarahan for all.
