KL to expand surveillance with 20,000 new CCTVs by 2030: Zahid

Initiative aims to enhance city security, reduce crime rates, monitor traffic congestion, says DPM

From left, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, and Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi at a press conference after the cabinet committee meeting on road congestion at the Kuala Lumpur Command & Control Centre today. – Riduan Rizal Ahmad/Scoop pic, July 15, 2024

KUALA LUMPUR – At least 20,000 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras must be installed in Kuala Lumpur to oversee security and traffic flow in the city centre.

After chairing the Cabinet Committee on Road Congestion, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said that currently, there are 5,000 CCTVs installed around the capital but emphasised the need to increase that number before the 13th Malaysia Plan.

He said that the Kuala Lumpur City Council and other government agencies will collaborate on this CCTV installation project. 

Drawing inspiration from smart cities worldwide, Zahid underscored the implementation of high-definition CCTVs equipped with facial recognition technology in Kuala Lumpur to enhance public safety and reduce crime rates.

“During the meeting, I received updates on monitoring traffic congestion, flood disasters, and concrete spills in Kuala Lumpur using 5,000 CCTV cameras across the city.

“I was also informed that some of the cameras are used for crime monitoring and safe city control by police,” he said at a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur Command & Control Centre today.

Also present at the meeting today were Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah, and Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. – July 15, 2024