Violence in Malaysia?

Question

I have been reading in the online papers of gangs now resorting to a lot of violence during robberies and that there is a big increase in this type of crime especially in the JB area

.There have also been reports from different areas of Malaysia of people geting beaten up and robbed, people being killed and dumped in out of the way places e.t.c.

Exactly how safe is it now a day for a traveller.

I understand that there is violent robberies all over, I'm just surprised at the number of them being reported in your Newspapers, nearly on a daily basis.I used to be a regular visitor to Malaysia.

Answer 1

These are a few trends that I have observed about Malaysians (in general) which are perhaps a reflection of the times the locals have to put up with:

1. Nearly all homes in residential neighbourhoods (terrace houses, apartments) have some kind of metal grills for all openings - gates/doors, all windows, bathroom vents); while alarm systems are common for terrace houses.
2. Gated and guarded homes (condominiums, terrace homes, bungalows) are preferred because they offer 24-hr security including restricted entry to non-residents.
3. More women especially are wary (nervous) of who's walking behind them even during lunch hour along 5-ft way of shops.
4.Drivers (women in particular) lock their car doors as soon as they get in to drive.

While violent crimes have increased, it is by no means 'unsafe' for locals or visitors as long as common sense prevails; for example: don't walk alone in alleys or wander in deserted places (seaside, parking lots of malls included) even during the day; frequent popular places where there are lots of activity; never accept offers of ride, drink or meal from strangers....

JB is a notorious city for a high crime rate but violent crimes can happen anywhere in the country - urban and rural.

Best to travel in a group.

Answer 2

I lived in Kuala Lumpur for a year or so right after high school with my family, after my dad was transferred there for business. (About 7 years ago) It wasn't terribly safe for Westerners; we had body guards and eventually my father's company pulled all of their foreign workers. I probably wouldn't go back. I imagine it has only gotten worse. I have lived in New York City, Sydney, and LA and felt much safer in those cities than in Malaysia.

Answer 3

Don't say this to Malaysians, they'll get angry with you, because they keep on repeating one and same sentence how peaceful, harmonic and bla bla nation they are.

Violent crimes are in increase according to official police statistics, especially rapes. Snatch thieves have always been common.

However, it's relatively safe, I'd say safer than NY. Most probably you won't face this problems, but many Malaysians have some serious attitude problems.

I live in Malaysia btw. Whatever you do, never listen to what Malaysians say because they're just repeating government propaganda. Ask foreigners who've been there and you'll get objective answers.

Probably when Malaysian see my answer they're gonna flood it with thumbs down because they don't want anybody to mention their crime issues as it shows Malaysia in a bad light according to them.

Answer 4

Honestly, Malaysian PDRM is turning its back on some cases which is an uproar. I wouldnt want to offend anyone from other countries so I will not name countries/places, but there are far worst places with far worst crimes then what Malaysia is going through. Crime is preventable but its unstoppable, Its human nature to do harm, kill and take advantage of to each other.

Answer 5

it is safer to stay at home.