Penang:The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is set to expand its Whitening The Black Spot initiative across the nation in stages, starting with Penang, as announced by Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative will be implemented contingent by contingent, involving engagements and town halls in each district. The police will collaborate with various agencies, communities, NGOs, and local leaders to address and resolve issues effectively.

The Penang phase of the initiative will last for a month before extending to other states facing high crime rates or significant security challenges. This comprehensive preventive approach includes patrols, targeted operations, CCTV system improvements, community programs, safety education, and social interventions.

A total of 41 departments and agencies will participate in this integrated Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society approach to enhance safety in Penang. The initiative emphasizes Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, focusing on lighting, cleanliness, maintenance, environmental design, and public facilities to eliminate opportunities for crime.

Pilot locations in Penang include Bukit Jambul, Sungai Nibong, Kampung Ujong Batu, Permatang Pauh, Sungai Rambai, Pondok Upeh, and Bukit Panchor. The success of the initiative will be measured by reductions in crime rates, improved orderliness, increased police presence, and enhanced community safety perceptions.

Penang police chief Datuk Dennis Lim Kwang Keng highlighted that the initiative targets unsafe areas, such as dark, dirty spots and abandoned buildings, aiming to transform them into safe, harmonious neighborhoods. The district police chiefs have proposed 38 programs across five districts in Penang to meet the initiative's goals within a month. These objectives include improving crime prevention, fostering cross-agency cooperation, transforming high-risk areas, and empowering community involvement.

Lim emphasized that the success of Whitening the Blackspot requires collaboration from local communities, federal and state agencies, elected representatives, local authorities, the private sector, and NGOs, as safety is a shared responsibility.