The Ministry of Transport (MOT) is exploring the use of more effective monitoring technology to curb rising cases of cable theft that have disrupted rail services nationwide.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the move comes amid increasing incidents of cable theft, particularly in northern regions, which have affected public transport operations.
He said MOT is also working closely with the Home Ministry to strengthen laws related to such offences, stressing that cable theft should not be treated as ordinary theft due to its wider impact on public safety and services.
Loke said the issue is a matter of national security as it not only disrupts transport services but also poses safety risks to the public.
He noted that despite joint enforcement efforts by the police and Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB), the problem persists due to the high value of copper, which continues to attract criminal activity.
The minister also highlighted the challenge of monitoring Malaysia’s extensive railway network, which spans about 1,000 kilometres and includes remote areas that are difficult to secure.
He added that the ministry is studying approaches used by other countries facing similar rail infrastructure challenges to strengthen local prevention measures.
Loke said the issue is not unique to Malaysia, as many countries with rail networks also face similar problems, making international best practices useful for improving enforcement strategies.
