GEORGE TOWN — Penang’s reputation as Malaysia’s safest city has been solidified, with the state topping an international online database’s rankings.
But while Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow celebrates this achievement, he remains wary of a persistent threat: drug-related crimes.
While street crimes like robberies and violent offenses have been largely under control for years, Chow emphasises that the state’s role as a key drug distribution hub remains a significant concern.
“What remains concerning is drug-related crimes, as Penang has been a key distribution hub for drugs originating from northern countries.
“Drugs arrive in Penang either by land or sea before being distributed elsewhere. However, other crimes remain under control, which helps make tourists feel safer when visiting the state,” he told reporters during the Chinese New Year open house event that he hosted at Spice Arena, Bayan Baru.
Penang’s low crime rate earned it a spot at the top of the Numbeo rankings, surpassing major cities like Kuala Lumpur.
Scoring 69.7, Penang ranks 77th globally as the safest city in Malaysia, according to the latest figures from the international crowd-sourced platform.
These rankings are based on surveys using scientific research methods conducted on Numbeo’s website.
Chow also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance public safety. The state government is in the process of installing 1,000 CCTV cameras across the Seberang Perai district, with the installation set to be completed within two years.
Currently, over 200 cameras have already been installed.
This initiative aims to deter crime and bolster safety, though Chow noted the capacity limitations.
“We are looking to increase the number of CCTV units throughout the district, but we do face limitations in our capacity.
“(Therefore), we can only install up to 1,000 units across Seberang Perai. (Additionally), more than 1,000 units have already been installed on the island,” he explained. – January 30, 2025