“It started with the police contingents in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor on Oct 15 followed by Perlis on Nov 15 and Johor on Dec 10,” said Comm Datuk Wan Hassan Wan Ahmad, Bukit Aman’s Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department director.“So far 2,760 BWCs have been distributed as of Dec 10.
“For other police contingents, the process of registering user IDs for the purpose of check-ins of the use of the cameras is still ongoing,” he told The Star recently.
The full nationwide roll-out for all 7,648 BWCs will be completed by March next year.
“They will be available at 157 district police headquarters and 640 police stations nationwide.
“The distribution of the cameras will prioritise officers and personnel with the Mobile Patrol Vehicle (MPV) and the Motorcycle Patrol Units (URB) as well as those with the department who are conducting crime prevention patrols.
“They will also be distributed to Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department officers conducting traffic enforcement duties.
“BWCs will also be used in other police operations on a case-by-case basis,” he added.
Comm Wan Hassan said a successful pilot run was conducted from June 9 to July 14 at the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor police contingents.
The cameras were able to capture all the action of police officers along with their location when they interacted with the public, he said.
“It (BWC use) can elevate the image of the police force and increase people’s confidence in the police. It also improves transparency,” he added.
All those assigned with BWCs will be provided ample training prior to using it, he said.
“The BWCs will also be able to record up to eight hours of audio and video and there is a green light indicator (on top of the device) showing that it is switched on.
“Each user is equipped with a special BWC ID while on duty. Failure to switch on the BWC while on duty will result in disciplinary action,” he explained.
Those wearing BWCs are required to keep them on throughout their shift except during prayers or when going to the toilet.
“The video and audio recordings (from the BWCs) can be used as evidence in an investigation or prosecution.
“It can also protect the police and people from any baseless allegations.
“The BWCs will not only be able to curb wrongdoing and integrity problems among MPV and URB personnel, but also protect them from unwarranted criticism while going about their duties.
“We hope it will increase the integrity of those on duty and curb any possible wrongdoing or misdemeanours,” he added.
Asked if there were plans to expand the use of the BWCs to other police divisions and units, Comm Wan Hassan said plans were in the pipeline.
“However, we will need additional funds make these plans a reality,” he said.
Comm Wan Hassan said the police would move forward with the use of the latest technology in line with modern policing to curb and prevent crime.
“With technology advancing further, police work has become more challenging. I hope the BWCs would be able to improve the integrity of those in the force and increase the ‘feel safe’ factor among the public,” he added.
Caught in the act: A suspect being detained on a local commercial flight for theft recently. — Courtesy photograph
Mid-air heists see cash, jewellery stolen from unwary passengers
PETALING JAYA: Commercial airlines are becoming a hot spot for jet-setting thieves who orchestrate mid-air heists on unsuspecting passengers.
Two weeks ago, two Chinese nationals were fined a total of RM5,700 by the Balik Pulau Magistrates’ Court for stealing over RM5,500 from two Malaysians during a flight from Penang to Kuala Lumpur.
This incident is the latest in a series of thefts that have occurred onboard commercial airlines recently.
On Oct 26 this year, The Star reported the arrest of a 49-year-old man from mainland China on suspicion of stealing more than HK$4,300 (RM2,430) from two passengers during a flight from Malaysia to Hong Kong.
“They would also scout potential victims at the boarding gate prior to the flight.”
The crime would normally be perpetrated when the plane was at cruising altitude and once the cabin lights were dimmed for sleeping.
One of the individuals would attempt to retrieve their bag from the overhead compartment and in the process rummage through the belongings of the targeted victim.
Upon making off with the valuables, the person would pass the stolen items to their accomplice at drop-off points such as the aircraft lavatory.
“Because of this, it is difficult to apprehend these criminals,” said the pilot.
“If caught red-handed, they would simply admit that they had mistakenly taken the wrong bag and apologise. If they suspected that the crew had found out that a theft had taken place, they would toss the item away, making it look like the victim had misplaced it.
“In the event that a theft had been confirmed and the suspects were apprehended, the pilot would transmit a message through ACARS (Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System) to the ground station for a security team to investigate and apprehend the suspects.”
For those who have fallen victim to these thefts, the airlines are not considered responsible for the missing valuables or personal belongings.
Those who had travel insurance would also have to provide a police report and a detailed account from the airline to prove and corroborate that the item(s) were indeed stolen during the flight, said an insurance expert.
“Insurers will require solid proof to accept a claim, failing which it will be construed that the loss of the items is due to negligence,” he added.
“If the claim is accepted, the settlement or quantum for the lost items will be based on the policy and coverage.”
Some airlines have already begun taking steps to limit the incidence of in-flight thefts.
This includes making frequent announcements to remind passengers to be mindful of their personal belongings and not to change seats during the flight.
On some flights, cabin lights will be dimmed instead of being turned off to reduce opportunities for theft.
If there are suspected individuals identified by the security team on the ground, a memo will be issued to the crew.
The ground staff will also be instructed to assign these individuals to window seats instead of the aisle seat to restrict their movement.
If there are suspicions that these criminals are on board, the cabin crew will also be instructed to be alert and step up patrols during the flight.
Proponents say the mind does not exclusively reside in the brain or even the body, but extends into the physical world.
David Chalmers on Extending the Mind Beyond the Brain
THE notion of the extended mind challenges traditional understandings of cognition by suggesting that mental processes are not confined solely to the brain but are, instead, distributed across the brain, body and environment.
This innovative perspective posits that the tools we use, the spaces we inhabit, and the social interactions we engage in are integral components of our cognitive processes.
Rather than viewing the mind as an isolated entity, the extended mind theory encourages us to consider how our surroundings, technologies and relationships shape our thoughts, memories and problem-solving abilities.
At its core, the concept emphasises that cognition is not merely an internal affair but a dynamic interplay between individual mental states and external factors.
This framework opens up a rich field of inquiry into how we think, learn and interact with the world around us.
By recognising the mind’s extension into the external world, we gain new insights into the nature of intelligence and the ways in which we can enhance our cognitive capabilities.
Roots of theory
The extended mind theory draws from a rich tapestry of philosophical thought.
One of the earliest proponents of ideas resembling the extended mind was American philosopher William James, who emphasised the fluidity of consciousness and the importance of external stimuli in shaping mental states.
Additionally, the works of phenomenologists, particularly Maurice Merleau-ponty, highlighted the embodied nature of cognition, asserting that our understanding of the world is deeply intertwined with our physical presence within it.
Andy Clark and David Chalmers’ contribution was particularly groundbreaking, as they introduced the parity principle, which states that if an external entity functions in the same way as an internal cognitive process, we should consider it part of the cognitive system.
This principle challenges traditional notions of mind and body as separable entities, suggesting instead that our cognitive landscape extends into our interactions with the world, including the tools we use and the social contexts we inhabit.
Despite its innovative approach, the extended mind theory has faced scrutiny from various quarters – critics argue that it risks overextending the boundaries of cognition. They assert that while tools may assist cognitive functions, they do not replace or embody them in the same manner as internal mental processes.
Proponents, however, say that cognitive processes can indeed be distributed, emphasising that the relationship between mind and environment is not merely one of assistance but a dynamic interplay that shapes thought itself.
By acknowledging the role of external elements, proponents assert that we gain a more nuanced understanding of cognition, one that reflects the complexities of human experience in an increasingly interconnected world.
By looking beyond the confines of the brain, we can explore the intricate relationships between mind, body and environment, setting the stage for a deeper investigation into the implications of this theory.
Key areas involved
There are three key areas where the implications of the extended mind theory manifest:
> The environment
The extended mind theory posits that cognitive processes are not confined to the brain but are distributed across the individual and their environment.
This perspective encourages researchers to explore how physical spaces, social contexts, and even the material objects we interact with can shape our cognitive abilities.
For example, studies have shown that the arrangement of a workspace can significantly impact creativity and problem-solving capabilities. Environments rich in stimuli can enhance memory recall, while those lacking in engagement may lead to cognitive stagnation.
Moreover, the concept of affordances i.e. how the environment offers opportunities for action, plays a crucial role in shaping our cognitive experiences.
When individuals interact with their surroundings, they engage in a dynamic exchange that influences their thought processes.
This interaction suggests that understanding cognition requires a holistic view that incorporates environmental factors rather than isolating cognitive functions within the confines of the brain.
> Role of technology
Technological advancements have further expanded the boundaries of the extended mind.
From smartphones to wearable devices, technology has become an integral part of our cognitive tool kit.
These tools not only serve as extensions of our memory – storing information we might otherwise forget – but also enhance our problem-solving abilities by providing instant access to vast amounts of data.
Cognitive scientists are increasingly examining how technology modifies our cognitive processes e.g. using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality.
However, this increased reliance on technology raises important questions about cognitive offloading – where individuals transfer cognitive tasks to external devices.
While this can lead to increased efficiency, it may also result in a decline in certain cognitive skills, such as memory and attention.
The challenge lies in striking a balance between leveraging technology as an extension of our cognitive capabilities while maintaining the essential skills that underpin our cognitive health.
> Social interactions
The extended mind framework also emphasises the role of social interactions in cognitive processes, highlighting how collective cognition emerges when individuals collaborate and share knowledge.
Cognitive scientists have found that group dynamics can significantly enhance problem-solving abilities, as diverse perspectives contribute to a richer understanding of complex issues.
Collaborative tools, such as shared documents and online communication platforms, facilitate this collective cognition by enabling real-time exchanges of ideas and information.
These interactions not only augment individual cognitive capacities but also create a shared cognitive environment that fosters creativity and innovation.
Research has demonstrated that groups capable of effectively leveraging their collective intelligence can outperform individuals working alone.
Applications in daily life
External resources we can use include:
> Tools to enhance memory and learning
From simple notepads and whiteboards to sophisticated digital applications, these tools serve as extensions of our cognitive capabilities. For instance, writing down information helps to offload cognitive burdens, allowing individuals to process and retain information more effectively.
Smartphones and tablets provide access to vast amounts of information, enabling learners to engage with content in diverse ways e.g. via interactive quizzes or multimedia presentations.
These tools not only facilitate the encoding and retrieval of information but also support active learning strategies, such as spaced repetition, which can lead to deeper understanding and retention.
> Collaborations to solve problems
When individuals come together, their collective cognitive resources can exceed the capabilminds. ities of isolated Teamwork allows for the poolknowledge, ing of skills and perspectives, resulting in enhanced problem-solving and creativity.
For example, brainstorming sessions leverage the diverse insights of team members, leading to innovative solutions that may not have emerged from solitary thinking. Moreover, collaborative tools – such as shared digital platforms and project management software – create environments where ideas can be easily exchanged, thus extending cognitive processes beyond the individual.
> Mindfulness and environmental awareness
Being attuned to our surroundings and recognising how they influence our thoughts and behaviours can lead to more intentional decision-making.
Meditation and nature walks can enhance our awareness of the relationship between our minds and the external world, enabling us to engage with our environments in more meaningful ways.
We can then create environments – be it through decluttering our spaces or surrounding ourselves with inspiring stimuli – that promote focus, creativity, and mental well-being.
Future direction
The concept of the extended mind has significantly reshaped our understanding of cognition, challenging traditional notions that confine mental processes within the skull.
By positing that our cognitive capacities extend into our environments, tools and social interactions, the theory offers a broader perspective on how we think, learn and interact with the world around us.
This paradigm shift has profound implications not only for cognitive science but also for education, technology, and our daily lives.
One promising direction lies in the integration of technology into our cognitive processes.
Researchers might explore how emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and AR, can serve as cognitive extensions, enhancing our problem-solving abilities and decision-making processes.
Future studies could investigate how social networks and collaborative platforms influence group dynamics and collective problem-solving.
By examining the interplay between individual and communal cognition, researchers can better understand how we can harness the power of social interactions to enhance learning and innovation.
Mindfulness and environmental awareness also present fertile ground for exploration.
In conclusion, the theory of the extended mind invites us to reimagine the boundaries of cognition and its myriad influences.
By embracing the extended mind framework, we can unlock new avenues for understanding human cognition, ultimately enriching our experiences and interactions in an increasingly complex world.
By Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar who is a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and a functional medicine practitioner. For further information, email starhealth@ thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
Purchasing a sub-sale property occasionally comes with a tenant included as part of the deal, according to the agent anyway. But what happens when all the documents are done and dusted, and then the tenant changes his/ her mind and refuses to leave?
Evictions happen more often than one might think, and the ensuing processes are some of the most headache-inducing, therapy-requiring tasks in the history of mankind.
how do cases like this even occur? sometimes, loopholes are present in documents like tenancy agreements.
As the legal contract between a landlord and a tenant, the papers outline every duty and obligation of each party while the tenancy is valid. It is extremely important to draft a well-written tenancy agreement. It might sound like the most obvious thing in the world, yet issues like these still prevail even today.
Understanding tenant’s rights
Before taking any measures, property owners need to grasp the rights afforded to tenants. Legal frameworks in most jurisdictions provide protections against unlawful eviction, which means that landlords must adhere to established protocols before evicting someone.
Ignoring these regulations can lead to legal repercussions, including financial penalties and potential lawsuits. Familiarising youself with the local tenantlandlord laws can help property owners avoid headache-inducing pitfalls.
The next course of action
■ Legal fees in eviction cases can reach up to RM30,000
■ Six months typical for case settlement
■ Keep detailed records of all interactions, payments and formal notices
should involve a thorough review of the tenancy agreement linked to the property.
As described by law firm Kevin Wu and Associates in their article titled “Tenancy Law in Malaysia: Evicting Tenants”, a tenancy agreement is a binding contract between a tenant and a landlord which outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party during the tenancy period. The tenancy period is usually created for a term which does not exceed three years, otherwise, it will be considered as a lease.
If the tenancy period has expired, they can issue a Notice to Quit, which formally requests the tenant to leave by a specific date, typically allowing a reasonable timeframe based on local regulations.
however, if the tenancy agreement is still active, the landlord will have to wait until its expiration or may need to explore other options, such as negotiating an early termination.
A Notice to Quit must be drafted per the specifics of the tenancy agreement and any local regulations, so consulting a real estate attorney is advisable.
This step ensures the notice is legally sound and appropriately delivered, protecting the landlord from potential disputes.
In the event the tenant does not move out of the rented property after the notice period ends or after the tenancy is terminated, and without the landlord’s consent, the tenant is liable to pay to the landlord double the rental payable under the tenancy pursuant to section 28(4) (a) of the civil Law Act 1956.
Attempting peaceful resolution
Often, proactive communication can help pave the way for a more positive and friendly resolution. Initiating a conversation with the tenant to discuss their situation and the possibility of vacating might be all it takes.
Offering flexible timelines or even financial incentives, such as a relocation bonus, or help with moving costs, can make the transition smoother for everyone involved. Establishing a cooperative dialogue mitigates stress and fosters goodwill, allowing both parties to reach an agreeable outcome.
If attempts at negotiation do not get the desired results and the tenant remains stubbornly uncooperative, seeking legal advice becomes paramount.
An experienced attorney specialising in landlord-tenant law can guide the property owner through the intricacies of the eviction process, from drafting necessary legal documentation to representing them in court if the situation takes a turn for the worse.
should legal proceedings become inevitable, initiating a lawsuit may involve filing a claim in a local court and subsequently obtaining a court order for eviction.
It is important to keep in mind that these processes can be time-consuming, sometimes stretching over several months and may lead to increased frustration and anxiety for property owners feeling trapped in their predicament.
The financial and emotional toll
The financial ramifications of an eviction can be substantial, adding to the overall stress of the situation. Legal fees can accumulate quickly, especially if the case drags on or requires multiple court appearances.
several studies have found that the fees can reach up to rm30,000 and the eviction process could drag on for half a year.
Additionally, there’s always the potential risk of property damage. In some unfortunate scenarios, tenants may do intentional harm to the property during their exit, resulting in costly repairs and delays in re-renting or selling the unit.
The emotional toll can also be significant. The anxiety, frustration and uncertainty in dealing with a non-compliant tenant can weigh heavily on property owners, making it difficult for them to focus on other aspects of their lives.
understanding that it’s normal for property owners to feel overwhelmed in these situations can be helpful, so seek out support from friends, family or even groups of fellow landlords who can provide the necessary guidance and reassurance needed.
Be proactive
To reduce the risk of facing similar challenges in the future, property owners should consider using several proactive strategies. First and foremost, thorough tenant screening is crucial.
conducting comprehensive background checks that include evaluating rental histories, credit scores and personal references can be beneficial.
A well-informed decision at the outset can minimise the likelihood of disputes later on.
Additionally, it is vital to draft a clear and comprehensive tenancy agreement that explicitly outlines all terms and conditions related to the lease.
This should cover aspects such as payment schedules, maintenance responsibilities, acceptable behaviour standards and clear procedures for termination.
A well-defined agreement can help forestall misunderstandings and promote clarity among both parties.
Maintaining open lines of communication with tenants is also essential. regular check-ins can help address any concerns they may have before they escalate into larger issues.
Moreover, keeping detailed records of all interactions, payments and formal notices can further protect property owners in any future disputes.
