Education Ministry’s RM2b feeble security services

The latest AG’s report unfolds weak and unsatisfactory security services employed by the ministry. Many flaws in the contract’s execution were also unearthed

PETALING JAYA: The Education Ministry spent RM2.052 billion, from 2010 to 2012 on management of security services at educational institutions, only for audit findings to reveal various weaknesses in the services.

The 2012 Auditor-General’s (AG) report which was released today, found that among the many shortcomings, services were not performed satisfactorily and there was no proper entry-exit control instituted adequately.

“Audit findings revealed that the security services or Perkhidmatan Kawalan Keselamatan (PKK) were not satisfactory. For example, watchman locks were not recorded regularly and presence of security guards was inadequate,” read the report.

The Education Ministry procured the services of private security companies to implement the PKK without firearms in schools and educational institutions.

Among the objectives was to create a peaceful school environment with conducive teaching and learning atmosphere that is suitable for all parties.

However, the AG report noted that there was improper contract management where by the performance bond was submitted late and the contract had been signed although it was not received.

“Also, the contract terms were incomplete because the number of record locks using watchman clocks, specifications for the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) and alarm system were not set and security guards’ profile information was presented only upon request,” the report read.

The latest AG report also noted that there was breach of contract as the security guards exceeded the age limit. Above that health and security screening reports were not submitted.

“Attendance records were not prepared, guards did not meet the dress code regulations and they were provided with inadequate and damaged equipment,” said the report.

The report also mentioned that there was irregular payment of claims in which the Service Implementation Report was not completed but still approved and paid.

To overcome the shortcomings raised in the management of the PKK, the report recommended for all parties involved to take several actions, and had asked the Ministry to review unreasonable and vague contract terms that are not in favour of the government to avoid confusion and misinterpretation, among others.

“The ministry should terminate and blacklist companies that fail to comply with conditions of the contract and improve the performance of their services.

“The monitoring aspect should also be improved through scheduled and surprise inspections especially at night to ensure that the company is providing proper service,” recommended the report.