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PUTRAJAYA (Feb 10): Following the recent shooting incident at Setia City Mall, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has reassured Malaysians that public safety and national security remain top priorities. He emphasized that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is well-prepared to handle such situations effectively.
“There is no need for public panic. PDRM has demonstrated a high level of readiness and competence in responding swiftly to the incident. If not for their quick action, the outcome could have been much worse,” Saifuddin said during a press conference at the Home Ministry’s monthly assembly.
Although the suspect is still at large, the police have already identified him as a local man in his 30s with a history of criminal and drug-related offences. Selangor police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan revealed that the suspect has 11 prior records and is now the target of an intense manhunt.
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The incident occurred on Saturday night around 10:50 pm at Setia City Mall. The suspect fired four shots at a cleaner, injuring the victim’s legs and buttocks. The victim managed to seek help inside the mall, while the suspect moved to another level and discharged more shots before fleeing.
Strict Firearms Regulations in Malaysia
Addressing concerns about firearm ownership, Saifuddin assured the public that Malaysia has strict gun control laws. “No citizen can own a firearm without a licence. The process is highly stringent, taking at least one to two years to complete,” he explained.
During his tenure at the Home Ministry, only about three out of every 100 firearm licence applications were approved. He emphasized that possession of an unlicensed firearm is a serious crime with heavy penalties.
Improving Security Measures
Saifuddin acknowledged that while most commercial premises have security personnel, including auxiliary police, incidents like this serve as a reminder to enhance security measures.
He proposed reviewing and updating training modules for security personnel to better address evolving threats. “Security personnel already undergo training before starting their duties, but it is timely to reconsider additional measures and prioritize critical aspects of security training,” he said.
With the suspect still on the run, the police have intensified their efforts to locate him and ensure public safety. — Malay Mail