Lo (centre) speaks to reporters at the site. Seen from left are MPP councillor Alvin Chong and project manager Malcolm Jitam. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad

KUCHING (May 5): Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras powered by artificial intelligence have been launched in Batu Kitang as part of a smart safety initiative within the constituency.

Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang said the RM300,000 Rural Transformation Project (RTP) covering six key locations involves the refurbishment of existing CCTV poles as well as the installation of new high-definition 8MP cameras and public address loudspeakers.

“There are six poles with a total of 18 cameras installed at strategic locations, including Jalan Dogan, Jalan Arang, Mile 3, Jalan Burung Lilin, and SJK Chung Hua Batu 4.

“Each location is equipped with three AI-enabled cameras, allowing for advanced analytics such as vehicle detection, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), and facial recognition,” he told reporters during a site inspection at Arang Road.

He explained that all the CCTV feeds are integrated with the Sarawak Integrated Operations Centre (SOIC) under the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), while also being accessible at the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) control room.

“I would like to thank the contractors for installing the CCTV system, as well as SMA for agreeing to take over and manage the system, with SOIC overseeing its maintenance moving forward,” he said.

Lo noted that the initiative supports the state government’s broader vision of strengthening digital infrastructure and advancing smart city development.

“With the implementation of this project, Batu Kitang continues to move forward in adopting smart and integrated solutions to enhance public safety and improve the quality of life of its residents. It is also expected to help reduce the crime rate in N13 Batu Kitang,” he said.

He also highlighted the role of the Neighbourhood Watch N13-Arang Road Chapter in fostering safety, trust and cooperation among residents in the area.

During the chapter’s launch on Oct 13 last year, it received strong support from the police, Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation, Unit Kawalan Keselamatan Perkampungan (UKPS), the People’s Volunteer Corps, and MPP.