Latest news with #AllianceforaSafeCommunity


The Sun
21 hours ago
- Health
- The Sun
Call for Good Samaritan Act in Malaysia to protect emergency helpers
KUALA LUMPUR: The government has been urged to introduce a Good Samaritan Act in the upcoming Parliament session to safeguard bystanders and first responders who assist in emergencies. Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye highlighted the need for such legislation, citing its effectiveness in countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. Lee stressed that fear of legal repercussions often discourages people from helping accident victims or those in medical distress. 'The act is necessary because it encourages public assistance in emergencies. Many people hesitate to help due to concerns about potential legal liability,' he said. A Good Samaritan Act would provide legal immunity for those acting in good faith, ensuring they are not held liable for civil or criminal claims. This protection could encourage more trained individuals to step forward during critical moments, such as road accidents, heart attacks, or drowning incidents. Lee also noted that the law would help counter the 'bystander effect,' where people refrain from helping due to uncertainty over consequences. 'It reinforces the idea that the government values and protects those who assist others,' he added. The proposed law would benefit not only ordinary citizens but also off-duty medical professionals and volunteers. However, Lee clarified that protection should not extend to cases involving gross negligence or malicious intent. Public awareness campaigns would be essential to educate Malaysians on their rights and responsibilities under the act. Lee called for consultations with stakeholders, including the Health Ministry, legal experts, and emergency responders, to ensure a balanced and comprehensive law. 'The introduction of a Good Samaritan Act is not just about legal protection, it is about cultivating a culture of care, responsibility, and civic duty,' Lee said. 'We must not allow hesitation and fear to cost lives. The time to act is now.' - Bernama

Barnama
21 hours ago
- Politics
- Barnama
Govt Urged To Introduce Good Samaritan Act To Protect Bystanders
KUALA LUMPUR, July 13 (Bernama) -- The government has been urged to introduce a Good Samaritan Act in the upcoming Parliament sitting to provide legal protection for bystanders and first responders who voluntarily assist individuals in emergencies. Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said similar laws are already in place in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom, and are needed in Malaysia to ensure that well-intentioned individuals are not deterred from helping others due to fear of legal repercussions. 'The act is necessary because it encourages public assistance in emergencies. Many people hesitate to help accident victims or individuals experiencing medical distress due to concerns about potential legal liability. 'Thus, a Good Samaritan Act would offer protection against civil or criminal liability for those who render aid in good faith, encouraging a more compassionate and proactive society,' he said in a statement today. Lee said immediate assistance in cases such as road accidents, heart attacks, drowning incidents or sudden collapse could mean the difference between life and death, and legal protection would encourage bystanders trained in basic first aid or CPR to act without hesitation. He added that such a law would help address the 'bystander effect', where individuals are more likely to take action when they feel safe from negative consequences. 'It would also reinforce the idea that the government values and protects those who step forward to assist others,' he said. Lee said a clear legal framework would also benefit medical professionals, off-duty healthcare workers and volunteers who provide emergency assistance outside their formal duties. It is also aligned with the values of Malaysian society, promoting kindness, mutual help and fostering a stronger sense of community responsibility.


The Star
3 days ago
- The Star
Fight against child sexual exploitation demands deep commitment
THE Alliance for a Safe Community expresses its deep concern over the continuing and alarming issue of sexual exploitation involving young children in Malaysia. These heinous acts not only violate the innocence and dignity of our children but also leave lifelong psychological trauma that is often difficult to heal. Recent statistics from the Royal Malaysia Police indicate that between 2020 and 2023, over 7,000 cases of sexual crimes involving children were reported. Hundreds of cases were linked to online grooming, exploitation, and paedophilic behaviour. Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Full access to Web and App. RM 13.90/month RM 9.73 /month Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter. RM 12.39/month RM 8.63 /month Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.


The Sun
07-07-2025
- Politics
- The Sun
N. Sembilan ban on drinking alcohol in public sparks concern
PETALING JAYA: The Negeri Sembilan government decision to ban alcohol consumption in public recreational spaces has sparked strong reactions from civil society groups and consumer rights advocates who stress that the move risks undermining individual freedoms, harming tourism and fostering intolerance in Malaysia's plural society. The ban, which took immediate effect, covers parks, beaches, fields and playgrounds. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said the move was made in response to public complaints about disturbances and litter left by people drinking at such places. 'We have received many complaints about individuals drinking and leaving behind bottles and packaging,' he said after chairing the state executive council meeting. He stressed that alcohol is not entirely banned, and people may still drink at shops or private premises, just not in public spaces. Violators face fines of up to RM2,000, with enforcement to be carried out by local councils and police. Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the policy could lead to unintended consequences, including for guests staying near recreational areas. 'What if someone is staying at a rest house near a beach or park? Are they not allowed to have a quiet drink in their own space? That would be unreasonable.' Lee said the actions of a few should not result in blanket restrictions for all. 'For non-Muslims, having a beer to unwind is a personal lifestyle choice. Not everyone who drinks misbehaves. Yes, incidents happen but they are the exception, not the norm,' he said. He added that Malaysia already has laws to address disorderly behaviour and that targeted enforcement, not sweeping bans, is the solution. 'If someone is causing trouble, report them to the police. We should not restrict the rights of many because of a few,' he said. 'If this trend continues, it could pave the way for similar restrictions elsewhere, eroding personal freedoms.' Lee also emphasised the importance of inclusivity. 'Public policy must reflect mutual respect and constitutional rights, including the legal right to consume alcohol responsibly.' Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) CEO and secretary-general Dr Saravanan Thambirajah echoed similar concerns, stressing that any policy limiting personal freedom, especially for non-Muslims, must be carefully reviewed. 'Malaysia is a multi-religious, multi-cultural nation. A blanket ban risks infringing the rights of those who consume alcohol legally and responsibly,' he said. Saravanan advocated strict enforcement of existing laws against being intoxicated in public and behaving in a disruptive manner, rather than implementing blanket bans. 'The issue lies with behaviour, not the beverage,' he said, adding that disturbances are caused by irresponsible individuals. He added that the ban could negatively impact the state tourism sector and small businesses that rely on alcohol sales. 'Beachside cafes, bars and convenience stores often cater to tourists. This ban could deter visitors and disrupt local livelihoods,' he said. Saravanan added that inconsistent state policies could confuse travellers and damage Malaysia's image as a tourist friendly destination. Fomca also cautioned against moralistic policymaking that overlooks the complexities of a plural society and urged for promotion of responsible consumption and civic-minded behaviour. 'Drinking should be confined to licensed, appropriate venues. Consumers must avoid unsuitable areas such as playgrounds or family zones. 'Littering, public nuisance or disorderly conduct should never be tolerated regardless of what is consumed,' he said. He added that any rule affecting diverse communities should be preceded by open dialogue. 'Rather than blanket bans, let's focus on targeted enforcement and public education, which are measures that uphold rights while ensuring harmony in shared spaces,' Saravanan said.


New Straits Times
30-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Priorities for the 13th Malaysia Plan
LETTERS: THE Alliance for a Safe Community welcomes the scheduled tabling of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) in Parliament on July 28. As Malaysia charts its course for the next five years, the 13MP must be bold, inclusive, and future-focused to address current challenges and prepare the nation for long-term resilience and sustainability. We urge the government to give serious consideration to the following critical areas for inclusion in the final Plan: 1. Social Protection and Healthcare Reform The plan must strengthen social safety nets, especially for the B40 and vulnerable communities. With an ageing population and rising chronic diseases, Malaysia needs comprehensive healthcare reforms, including mental health services, primary care strengthening, and greater support for caregivers and persons with disabilities. 2. Education and Human Capital Development A strong emphasis must be placed on quality education, digital literacy, STEM development, and upskilling. Teachers must be empowered, and school infrastructure upgraded. Equal access to education in rural and underserved areas is essential to reduce inequality and ensure intergenerational mobility. 3. Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Climate resilience must be mainstreamed across all sectors. The 13MP should include strong climate action commitments, sustainable urban planning, improved waste management, water security strategies, and reforestation programmes to address environmental degradation. 4. Economic Restructuring and Innovation A sustainable, high-value economy must be prioritised — moving away from low-skilled, low-wage models. The Plan should foster innovation, support MSMEs, increase automation, and attract green and digital investments. Regional development must also be equitable to avoid economic disparity. 5. Housing and Urban Liveability Affordable, safe, and accessible housing must be a priority. Urban renewal initiatives must be fair and inclusive, benefiting all stakeholders. Public transportation, pedestrian safety, and community infrastructure need urgent upgrades to enhance quality of life. 6. Good Governance and Institutional Reform The 13MP should incorporate stronger mechanisms for good governance, transparency, and accountability in public service. Strengthening integrity units, enhancing public participation in policymaking, and reducing bureaucracy are key to restoring public trust. 7. Public Safety and Crime Prevention A safe and secure environment is a prerequisite for national progress. Investments in community policing, cybercrime prevention, and drug abuse rehabilitation, especially among youth, must be scaled up. 8. Digital Transformation and Bridging the Digital Divide Digital inclusion should be made a national priority. Broadband access, particularly in rural areas, must be improved. The 13MP must also support digital safety education to prepare citizens for the evolving digital landscape. As we look ahead, the 13MP represents a timely opportunity for Malaysia to rebuild better — socially, economically, and environmentally. It must not only address current gaps but also anticipate future trends. We call on all stakeholders, including civil society, to participate actively in the shaping and monitoring of the plan's outcomes. Only through a whole-of-nation approach can we achieve a more equitable, secure, and resilient Malaysia.