By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 16: In an urgent move to safeguard motorists from recurring flying stone attacks along Jalan Batu Kawa, a solar-powered, AI-enabled closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera was installed at a strategic location today.
Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai, in a statement, said the installation followed the alarming resurgence of stone-hurling incidents targeting moving vehicles despite the recent arrest of a suspect linked to the attacks.
“After several days of discussions with the police, Public Works Department (JKR), CCTV contractor, and Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), the first solar-powered CCTV pole equipped with artificial intelligence technology has been installed today,” he said.
Tan expressed his gratitude to all involved parties for their swift action, noting the CCTV contractor’s contribution through a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative by providing the innovative AI-enabled surveillance system at no cost, SMA’s prompt exemption of licensing requirements due to the urgency, and JKR’s support in facilitating the installation works.
“This is a true reflection of the spirit of cooperation, where everyone plays their part to protect the community, rather than resorting to finger-pointing or publicity stunts. Together, we can make our community safer and more liveable,” he emphasised.
On July 8, Tan revealed that MPP has identified 12 additional strategic locations in Batu Kawa for upcoming CCTV installations. These include Emart Batu Kawa (Cheing Pork Shop), Emart Batu Kawa main entrance, Emart Batu Kawa (near Pak Amit Cafe), MJC Park 1, MJC RHB Bank, MJC night market, MJC WL6, MJC Choice Marketplace, Everwin Batu Kawa, Batu Kawa old market roundabout, Batu Kawa riverbank, and Batu Kawa 38 Commercial Centre.
The swift installation comes after a string of disturbing incidents in recent months, where motorists were endangered by stones hurled at their vehicles along the Jalan Batu Kawa stretch.
On July 8, Padawan District Police confirmed the arrest of a 68-year-old man suspected of involvement in the attacks following a month-long surveillance operation. Several stones believed to have been used in the incidents were seized as evidence.
According to Padawan District Police chief Supt Mohd Irwan Hafiz Md Radzi, police have received 10 reports regarding such attacks, with investigations ongoing under Section 427 of the Penal Code for mischief and property damage.
MPP reiterated its commitment to work closely with law enforcement and other relevant authorities to monitor and prevent further incidents, assuring the public that swift action will continue to be taken to protect road users. — DayakDaily
