Malaysians do not feel safe anymore. Gruesome and senseless crimes are reported everyday in the papers. According to the 2004 Quality of life Report, crime rate per thousand of population has increased from 3.8 per thousand people in 1990 to 6.2 per thousand in 2002. Malaysians cannot expect to feel safer in the future because according to the Deputy Inspector-General of Police Musa Hassan, juvenile crime is on the rise.

The latest statistics show that some 10,000 youths and 4,000 school children were caught for various crimes and vice activities last year. The rise in juvenile crimes can be attributed to the breakdown of the family unit as well as the influence of media.

When parents pursing economic success have no time to guide or be there for their children, they turn to the wrong companions. Such companions maybe unsavoury characters who impress them with wrong values and get them in trouble with the law.

The companions helping them to while away the hours can also be the television and the Internet. The violence and sex they are exposed, too, on the television (inclusive of cable TV) and Internet ultimately plays an important role in moulding their character

Thus there is a need for society to refocus on family values. It is important for parents to recognise that one of the most valuable gifts that they can give their children is their time and undivided attention, not expensive consumer products.

There is also a need to promote family values and to keep strict control over the media to prevent violence and pornographic materials from influencing young viewers.

Lastly there should be more venues where the young can interact and learn skills and put their energy to good use. The government needs to act fast because if delinquency continues unabated, what will be the future of the country?

The writer is president, Consumers Association of Penang .