He specifically mentioned that it was time for the home ministry to review punishments for those involved in gambling, prostitution, and vehicle theft, Bernama reported.

Shuhaily said these punishments are now either irrelevant or too lenient, especially as these crimes have evolved in modus operandi.

“Crimes such as gambling and prostitution have grown increasingly sophisticated due to advances in information technology.

“For instance, prostitution syndicates no longer operate from a fixed location. Bookings are now made via phone and payments are transferred online.

“If a prostitute is apprehended, she may claim the act was consensual and not transactional.

“As a result, no arrests can be made because there is no identifiable victim,” he said during a press conferenc at Bukit Aman today.

According to Shuhaily, the approval of gambling premises falls under the purview of local authorities and that the police are only tasked with conducting security checks.

“In fact, the definition of gambling-related activities varies between states, particularly in the context of family entertainment and interactive entertainment centres,” he said.

Shuhaily also said the punishment for vehicle theft under Section 379A of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum prison term of seven years, is insufficient as vehicle theft is now run by crime syndicates with international links.

“Investigations have found that some stolen vehicles in the country are sent overseas and purchased by organised crime groups involved in various fraudulent activities.

“Stricter laws and harsher punishments are necessary to combat this type of crime,” he said.

Shuhaily also expressed hope that the proposed amendments to the Prevention of Crime Act (Poca) 1959 would be approved this year to effectively tackle criminal activities, particularly serious crimes.