PETALING JAYA: While boosting security operations is crucial in the current digital and AI era, Budget 2026 should also address the welfare and social needs of enforcement personnel, say experts.

Universiti Sains Malaysia criminologist Datuk Dr P. Sundra­­moorthy said the upcoming budget should be multifaceted and not confined to operational needs.

“Equally important and often overlooked is the welfare of the men and women behind the badge. The psychological and physical demands of policing are immense.

“What is also needed are sustainable allocations for quality housing, healthcare and mental health support,” Sundramoorthy said.

He noted that housing remains a concern, with many members of the force living in outdated and inadequate quarters.

“Ensuring safe, accessible and dignified housing is not just a matter of welfare, it’s an investment in institutional integrity and operational effectiveness.

“A robust budget is not an indul­gence. It’s the foundation of a safer and more just Malaysia,” he said.

Sundramoorthy added that effec­tive policing in the modern era requires more than manpower but also advanced tools, training and infrastructure.

He said a balanced approach is needed in Budget 2026 to address evolving threats such as cybercrime, drug trafficking, transnational crime and violent extremism.

Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation senior vice-chairman Datuk Seri Ayub Yaakob said that Budget 2026 should include allocations for manpower needs of the police force.

“We are facing challenges in the commercial crime and narcotics departments as cases are increa­sing and becoming more sophisticated.”

Apart from increasing manpower, he said that both departments should be beefed up with experts in fields such as transboundary and digital crimes.

“It will take time to train officers to become experts in the related fields.

“If possible, hire outside experts as contract officers as we need spe­cialised people to combat these emerging threats,” he said.

Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said allocation for the nation’s security under Budget 2026 should be viewed as long-term investments rather than short-term expenses.

“Safety and security are not merely law enforcement issues.

“They are fundamental components of social stability, economic progress and community trust.

“A safer Malaysia equates to a more prosperous Malaysia,” he said.

Lee suggested taking an integrated, technology-driven app­roach coupled with community participation in Budget 2026.

“It is essential to make Malaysia safer and more resilient against emerging threats, both physical and digital.”

Lee added that strengthening cyber and digital security is among the areas that should be given more resources.

He said this is essential to combat online scams, fraud and digital crimes that continue to cause severe financial and emotional harm to people.

Lee said that allocation should also be made for awareness and capacity-building programmes.

This is in addition to procuring body cameras, mobile surveillance units and integrated communication systems to enhance transparency, accountability and rapid response capabilities, he added.

This article first appeared on The Star.