PETALING JAYA: A little goes a long way in ensuring car safety, including simple measures like parking in well-lit areas and using a steering lock, says the Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Its director Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said another measure that could be taken was installing a good safety alarm in the car.
“Install additional locks for the steering, gear, wheels and clutch.
“Also, make sure the car is always locked.
“Always park the car in a place that is easy to see, and if at night, in a well-lit area,” he advised.
Comm Mohd Shuhaily said vehicle owners should also ensure that car keys are not tampered with when sending their vehicles in for service.
“The current trend is that vehicle users only rely on existing security alarms to protect their vehicles from theft.
“We recommend vehicle owners take preventive measures by installing additional locks on the vehicle, such as using steering wheel locks, a second GPS tracking device, an Immobiliser or other anti-theft systems,” he said.
In an interview with The Star, Comm Mohd Shuhaily said vehicle safety and the vehicle owner’s alertness were two important factors that could prevent vehicle theft.
Vehicle Theft Reduction Council of Malaysia (VTREC) coordinator Mas Tina Abdul Hamid said having the vehicle’s registration number etched on all windows was one effective way to deter car theft.
“This makes it harder for thieves to profit and prevents unscrupulous sellers from trying to sell stolen vehicles to others,” she said.
As for vehicles with keyless technology, she advised owners to always keep the fob in a Faraday pouch.
The pouch serves as a sealed unit, preventing the transmission and reception of signals.
“Parking vehicles strategically can also be effective,” she said.
As for motorcycles, Mas Tina said using a strong padlock and large chain to secure the vehicle could be an effective deterrent.
“Secure your motorbike to an immovable object by looping a chain through the wheel and chassis,” she said.
On four-wheel-drive (4x4) vehicles being increasingly targeted by thieves, Mas Tina said the demand could be high as the rapid development in many countries could have created a demand for light trucks,” she said.
She noted that stealing a car no longer required brute force, as thieves could use devices to “trick” vehicles, particularly those with keyless entry, and drive off with the vehicle in a few minutes.
Mas Tina said VTREC would continue working with its stakeholders to further improve measures in curbing vehicle theft.
Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation senior vice-chairman Datuk Seri Ayub Yaakob proposed that car manufacturers and dealers include GPS trackers for all vehicles and not just as an added feature.
“Manufacturers and vehicle owners can also consider having enhanced encryption, two-factor authentication, and physical security features in their vehicles, combining electronic systems with physical deterrents.
“Another precautionary measure is installing a vehicle tracking system and camera with a remote monitoring system to trace the location of your vehicle as well as capture the suspect for further investigation,” he said when contacted.
The retired senior police officer said methods employed by vehicle theft syndicates have evolved, and many modern 4x4 and sports utility vehicles could be stolen with relative ease.
In cases where one’s vehicle is stolen, he said that the victim should stay in contact with the authorities for investigation updates and any potential vehicle recovery.
“Be proactive in following up on any leads or information that may arise,” he said.
