10,000 new body cameras to enhance police surveillance

New Straits Times

17-06-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Police are looking to expand the use of body-worn cameras (BWCs) in a two-pronged initiative, beginning with the procurement of 10,000 more units.
At present, 7,648 BWCs have already been deployed.
The second step in the expansion plan is the purchase of 17,648 SIM cards for all the devices that will be in use to enable real-time monitoring of police operations.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said to expand the implementation of the BWC initiative, police had submitted a proposal under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) to procure another 10,000 BWC units.
"The SIM cards will also be integrated with the BWC devices, allowing for 'live-stream' monitoring of assignments in the field," he told the New Straits Times.
Razarudin added that the move was in line with the force's commitment to increase transparency, integrity and public confidence in the effectiveness of policing in the digital era.
He said the use of BWC had so far proven to be a highly effective in enhancing integrity and accountability of the force.
"These devices continuously record all activities during assignments, thus enabling every action taken by police in the field to be monitored more transparently and objectively.
"BWC recordings serve as crucial evidence in evaluating any complaints or allegations of misconduct.
"In cases of procedural violations, the footage can be used as the basis for internal investigations, disciplinary actions or legal proceedings."
Before the use of BWCs, Razarudin said, there were no live recordings to support or refute claims.
Their presence had reduced opportunities for manipulation and improved public confidence in police professionalism, he added.
He said BWCs encouraged self-regulation among policemen and compliance with the standard operating procedure (SOP).
"Overall, the implementation of BWCs is part of Bukit Aman's efforts to enhance transparency, reduce misconduct and strengthen public trust in the police.
"The full BWC implementation is being carried out in phases based on officer deployment, logistical capacity and the alignment of supporting infrastructure, such as docking station systems and data storage."
Razarudin said the initiative was in the strengthening phase, with full usage depending on logistical readiness and field training.
He said BWCs were primarily used by patrol vehicle and motorcycle patrol units, traffic police and crime prevention patrols.
"They are also used by personnel stationed at the federal police headquarters in Bukit Aman and other operational units that interact with the public."
Razarudin said these units were selected based on operational needs and their level of exposure to high-risk situations to ensure the safety of personnel and the public.
He said all video recordings were stored according to police SOP.
"However, the SOP is classified under the Official Secrets Act and serve as an internal reference for the police.
"Any request for a copy or the contents of the SOP is subject to procedures outlined under the Official Secrets Act and must be made through official application channels."
Razarudin added that all BWC footage was stored for one month and would be reviewed if an issue or complaint were to arise.
"Recordings deemed important for investigations or as evidence will be retained for a longer period, in line with established needs and guidelines.
"The footage will also be reviewed if it is required as evidence in investigations, prosecutions or disciplinary proceedings."
Previously, Razarudin had told the NST that policemen wearing BWCs must comply with the SOP and were not allowed to switch the devices off while on duty.
The footage is stored via a docking station, which functions as a central data hub and automatically transfers all recordings captured during a policeman's shift.
The station also charges the devices to ensure they are ready for the next deployment.
Razarudin also said the procurement of additional devices would depend on funding approval and the force's strategic priorities.
Last August, Razarudin had said all policemen on field assignments would be required to wear BWCs by year end.