Tiang, joined by Toh (left), Ting (third left) and Abdullah Izkandar (third right), shows the bodycam worn by SMC enforcement officers. – Photo by Peter Boon
SIBU (Feb 8): The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) today launched its body camera (bodycam) initiative for its enforcement officers towards enhancing accountability and transparency.
SMC chairman Clarence Ting said for a start, the council’s enforcement team has five bodycam units.
He recalled the enforcement team was equipped with bodycams since 2024.
“We launch it today and want to inform the public we have five units of bodycam in SMC,” he said during the council’s Chinese New Year celebration here today.
When contacted, Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar explained the bodycam’s purpose is to capture video and audio recordings of a person’s interactions, often used by law enforcement, security personnel, or other individuals in positions where accountability and transparency are important.
“Some primary purposes of body cameras include evidence collection, accountability, transparency, training and safety. Overall, bodycams are tools for improving trust and ensuring accurate records of encounters,” he said.
SMC acting enforcement head Halwis Tair said the bodycam enhances their confidence in discharging their duties.
“This is because it records what is happening on the ground,” he said.
The event was officiated by Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Michael Tiang, who was representing Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Also present were Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng; SMC deputy chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley; SMC secretary Yong Ing Chu; Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) secretary Ng Sian Wei; political secretary to the Premier Joshua Ting, representing federal Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing; Sean Wong, representing Bawang Assan assemblyman Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh; and Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI) president Datuk Lau Cheng Kiong.
The event’s organising chairman Councillor Toh Yong Kiang delivered the opening remarks.
