Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution stated that the police will soon meet with the Malaysian Human Rights Commission to discuss the issue of the police inspecting public phones.
He said that he has asked the National Police Chief Tan Sri Razarudin to make a clear statement from an enforcement perspective.
"The police must not inspect phones without adequate reason. This must be based on intelligence information and cannot be conducted arbitrarily."
"If the police cannot inspect phones, and we receive information that someone is involved in criminal activities such as terrorism, how should we act?"
He responded in this manner today when visiting the preparations for the 2025 Asia International Security Summit and Expo (AiSSE) at the Putrajaya International Convention Center, following the Human Rights Commission's statement yesterday emphasizing that the police cannot arbitrarily check other people's phones, as it is considered a violation of human rights.
Razarudin mentioned last week that if there is suspicion that someone is involved in crime or there is relevant intelligence, the police have the right to inspect public phones, according to Section 23(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code, to ensure there is no obscene, threatening, or intimidating information.
Saifuddin stated that anyone who feels their privacy has been violated due to this action can file a report for an investigation to be carried out.
Additionally, he mentioned that the AiSSE taking place from tomorrow to Wednesday is expected to position Malaysia as a regional and global center for security innovation.
He explained that the AiSSE is not merely an exhibition but a strategic initiative to enhance the country's position in the security field through sharing ideas, technology, and cooperation.
"The theme is 'Asian Unity: Shaping the Future of Global Peace and Security through Law Enforcement Cooperation', clearly expressing our desire to promote unity, cooperation, and sustainable development in the security sector."
He said that the AiSSE event includes a tech exhibit by over 300 companies and 36 seminars conducted by experts and leaders from various countries to discuss global security issues.
"These seminars will address multiple security challenges, including cybersecurity, smart surveillance technology, and solutions to cross-border crime threats. This is a significant opportunity for Malaysia to learn new methods and improve existing policies."
He believes that this exhibition is expected to have a positive impact on Malaysia's economy, attracting investment and promoting collaboration opportunities between the government and industry.
AiSSE will have 300 companies showcasing the latest security technology from 48 countries, with an additional 109 local companies participating, and is expected to attract over 5,000 trade visitors and 1,000 seminar participants.