Enhanced patrols in seven key areas aim to assure safety ahead of Visit Johor 2026
To prepare for a tourism surge during the Visit Johor 2026 campaign, Johor police have begun deploying enhanced patrols across seven prominent public locations. This move, initiated on June 14, reflects the state’s commitment to public safety and investor confidence.
Seven Key Locations Secured
According to Johor Police Chief Commissioner Datuk M. Kumar, 80 police personnel are now actively patrolling the following areas:
- Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (BSI) complex;
- Bazar Karat;
- KSL City Mall;
- Angsana Mall;
- Berjaya Waterfront;
- Mid Valley Southkey; and
- Plaza Sentosa
These locations were identified as high-traffic zones popular with both locals and tourists. Officers not only patrol but also engage with business owners, ensuring a proactive presence “above and beyond” regular mobile and motorcycle patrols.
Visible Results and Expansion Plans
Since the initiative’s inception, no criminal incidents have been reported at the selected sites. Comm Kumar expressed plans to extend this “omnipresence” approach to all 10 police districts, with future involvement from the Federal Reserve Unit and marine units.
This multi-agency collaboration aims to fortify the image of Johor as a secure destination, enhancing visitor confidence in the lead-up to 2026.
Combatting AI-Driven Scams
Comm Kumar also warned of growing threats linked to artificial intelligence. Scammers, he said, are now leveraging AI to impersonate individuals through the hacked phones and social media, urging citizens to verify all money requests, even from familiar contacts.
He cited a manipulated TikTok video that falsely depicted him endorsing a financial aid initiative from a figure known as Datuk Malik. He stressed that the clip was entirely fabricated and under active investigation.
Crime Solving and Narcotics Success
In terms of law enforcement effectiveness, Johor’s criminal investigations department solved nearly 60% of index crimes in the first five months of 2025. Meanwhile, the narcotics division made significant strides:
- 10,794 arrests
- RM83.18 million (S$25 million) worth of drugs seized
- 21 drug syndicates dismantled
- RM7.49 million in assets forfeited
These numbers reflect a deepened commitment to public safety and order, strengthening the state’s readiness for international visitors.
Recognition and Public Assurance
At a recent assembly on June 18, commendation letters were awarded to law enforcement officers and media personnel, including Nelson Benjamin from Star Media Group, for their roles in promoting security and public awareness.
Comm Kumar emphasized that beyond patrols and investigations, community trust and vigilance remain critical pillars in maintaining a safe environment for residents and tourists alike.
This heightened security initiative not only reinforces Johor’s readiness for the international spotlight in 2026 but also signals broader regional implications. With its proximity to Singapore and increasing Indonesian visitor traffic, Johor’s proactive stance on safety and AI-related fraud sets an important precedent for Southeast Asia’s urban tourism hubs.
Sources: The Straits Times (2025) , The Star (2025)
Keywords: Johor Police, Visit Johor 2026, Tourist Safety, Malaysia Crime Rate, AI Scam, M. Kumar
