By Khen Han Ming
Bukit Aman’s head of the counter-terrorism unit, Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay’s recent statement with regards to the infiltration of terrorist elements in the security industry is no surprise for many of us in the security profession.
It was highly foreseeable as over the last few years several preceding incidences in the country exposed the vulnerability of the Malaysian security profession and the industry weakness in general.
Besides poor background checks and lack of vetting compliance, elements of rampant corruption also need to be addressed as a root cause, particularly when it comes to the appointment of security contractors.
One must wonder why companies, including public listed companies, are still willing to engage unscrupulous security companies to supply them with security guards.
There are a high number of unqualified guards employed by these security companies because the vast majority of them do not go through proper vetting procedures.
It is suspected that kickbacks are offered to ensure clients do not pressure the security services companies for work permits and other necessary documents.
Also, the guards are paid in cash because the majority of them, especially if they are illegal foreign workers, do not qualify to open Malaysian bank accounts.
It is high time that the authorities, especially the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission step in to investigate and address this issue as the concern over compromise in national security matters is a valid point should terrorist elements capitalise on these vulnerabilities. - FMT
Khen Han Ming is a principal consultant with JK Associates, a business solutions and consultancy provider in the field of protective security services.
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