Amer (right) checks out the new motorcycles with Sarawak Prevention and Community Safety Department head SAC Shafie Ismail.

KUCHING: The Sarawak police contingent has received 69 Kawasaki Z 250s for its Motorcycle Patrol Unit (URB) and 11 four-wheel drive vehicles to boost its assets in rural areas.

Sarawak police commissioner Datuk Seri Amer Awal said more such assets will be delivered to Sarawak in phases as part of efforts to strengthen and enhance services for the rural community.

“For the upcoming general election, the Sarawak police contingent will be mobilising a total of 7,017 personnel to ensure security at 1,832 polling centres, 2,968 polling stations and 870 SPR (Election Commission) agent counters throughout the 31 parliamentary constituencies,” he said during the contingent’s monthly parade yesterday.

He said the police are still fine tuning election preparations with emphasis on human resources, logistics, and training.
Amer pointed out that all police districts have undergone courses and training on public order and how to utilise the Information System Control Centre (SMPK) and Election Information System (SMPR).

A series of real life scenario exercises were conducted to measure and improve the response of personnel to different ‘worst case’ scenarios.

“The Sarawak police will also be equipped with a mobile application to monitor the turnout of voters in Kuching, Sibu and Miri as part of the SMPR,” he added.

During a press conference, Amer thanked Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg for accommodating the needs of the police during the 13th World Islamic Economic Forum here last year.

He said the state government allocated RM1.4 million to the police to beef up assets during the forum, which was attended by delegates from some 60 countries.

“The forum was held without a hitch and without any incidences, which had received the praise of the inspector general of police, who has agreed to present appreciation letters to the police personnel involved,” said Amer.