Authorities in Ipoh, Perak, are seeking public assistance to identify individuals responsible for vandalizing and stealing parts of heritage-style decorative lamp posts on a bridge along Jalan Leong Boon Swee. The state housing and local government committee chairman, Sandrea Ng, appealed to residents and local business owners to come forward with any information that could aid the ongoing investigation.

Ng specifically called on those with access to closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from shops or homes near the site to share relevant videos with the authorities. She emphasized that public cooperation has been crucial in reporting various offenses in the past, including theft, and that such collaboration helps officials gather more information to determine appropriate actions.

Images of the damaged lamp posts circulated widely on social media, showing the fixtures in a state of significant disrepair, with many of the upper parts missing and only the lower bases remaining. Some residents have expressed concerns that the vandalism may be connected to previous incidents of cable theft in the vicinity.

While no formal complaints have yet been filed with Ng’s office, she expects the Ipoh City Council to respond swiftly once reports are submitted. The council regularly conducts site inspections in response to complaints to evaluate the extent of damage before taking remedial measures.

Ng highlighted the seriousness of vandalizing public infrastructure, particularly items with heritage value, noting that such actions constitute a criminal offense. She urged the public to respect the law and refrain from damaging community property, warning that authorities will pursue appropriate penalties against perpetrators.

To address the issue, ongoing discussions are being held among state agencies, Telekom Malaysia, and law enforcement to enhance monitoring and enforcement efforts aimed at curbing theft of public property. Ng stated that relevant parties are reviewing prevention strategies and planning for necessary repairs or replacements in response to evolving patterns of such criminal activity.