CRIME IN TOURISM : PICKPOCKETS IN MALACCA

3
3
3 30

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Figure 3
Locations in Malacca tourism spots voted as pickpocket hotspots in Malacca by

respondents

According to the findings of the data analysis, the majority of respondents named
many areas in Malacca that are popular and maybe hotspots for pickpocketing. Mini
Malaysia & ASEAN Cultural Park, Melaka Wonderland Theme Park & Resort, and
Malacca Zoo are some tourist attractions in Ayer Keroh that could be pickpocket hotspots.
In Klebang, there is the Klebang Beach, which attracts a large number of visitors who
come to shop or relax on the beach. Finally, there is Hang Tuah Jaya, which is located in
Malacca's city center and is surrounded by tourist attractions like St. Stadthuys and others.
We go to Malacca City Centre to check how many respondents voted the most in favor
of the tourism area.

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Table 1

Frequency and percentage of locations voted as pickpocket hotspots in Malacca
by respondents

Location Frequency Percent (%)

A Famosa 30 10

Ayer Keroh 31

City Center 41 13.7

Jonker Street 67 22.3

Klebang Beach 13 4.3

Museum 31

Riverbank 18 6

St. Stadthuys 31

Terminal Bus 19 6.3

Not Sure 103 34.3

Total (n) = 300 100

Figure 4
Percentage of respondents that voted for pickpockets in
Malacca by respondents

Terminal Bus 1 6.3 34.3
Riverbank 1 6 35
4.3
Klebang Beach
10
City Center 1 5 10 13.7 22.3
15 20 25
A Famosa 30
0

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The frequency and proportion of respondents who voted for pickpocket hotspots
in Malacca are shown in Table 1 and Graph 1. To be honest, the majority of them (34.3
%) out of 300 respondents are unsure regarding this topic. It is because Malacca is the
safest city in Malaysia, with a crime index of 41.18 and a population of 58.82 (safety
index). According to Numbeo.com, Malacca is one of the safest cities in Malaysia (2019).
They do not know the specific area where pickpocketing incidents have been reported in
Malacca since it is not widely publicized in newspapers.

The most frequent pickpocket hotspot site in Malacca is Jonker Street, the city's
most prominent night market. This site garnered 22.3 percent of the vote (67 votes). There
were snatchings on Jonker Street in 2011. The women who grabbed her pocketbook on
busy Jonker Street are the victims. This site garnered 22.3 percent of the vote (67 votes).
There were snatchings on Jonker Street in 2011. The women who grabbed her pocketbook
on busy Jonker Street are the victims. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but her luggage was
stolen, and they filed a police report. Because Jonker Street is so bustling and congested,
the criminals have vanished. (“Touts and Snatch Thieves Manace a Common Sight in
Malacca Streets,” 2011)

Another incident occurred on Jonker Street when a Chinese visitor was seriously
injured while attempting to protect his wife from snatch robbers. The victim attempted to
shield her wife from the six guys who attempted to take our sling bags. Her husband was
unharmed when the six escaped after robbing the couple of RM300, while injured at both
heads and left shoulder. (“Snatch Thieves Batter Chinese Tourist,” 2014) Other sites
selected as hotspots by respondents include City Center (13.7 percent), A Famosa (10%),
Terminal Bus (6.3%), Riverbank (6%), Klebang Beach (4.3%), and others (3%). As a
result, it may be inferred that pickpockets can occur in a busy and packed location.

46

Other authors indicated that potential pickpocketing locations in "regular"
destinations and research has shown that these risky places are places where food and
beverage are consumed, places for entertainment and recreation (Hipp, Bauer, Curran, &
Bollen, 2004), parks, beaches, and public transit stations (Quick, Law, & Li, 2017).
Similar to Malacca, many tourist destinations attract a large number of visitors for
sightseeing and discovery, such as beaches, bus terminals, parks, and so on, which may
result in an unexpected crime.

4.3 DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS
In research, descriptive statistics are used to define the underlying aspects of data.

They provide succinct summaries of the sample and measurements. They, together with
simple graphical analysis, provide the cornerstone of practically any quantitative data
analysis. In most circumstances, descriptive statistics and inferential statistics are
separated. Descriptive statistics simply explain what the data is or shows. Inferential
statistics are used to make inferences that go beyond the immediate facts (Prof William
M.K. Trochim, 2020).

4.3.1 Impact of Pickpocket Crime Rate on Tourist Decision-Making to Visit Malacca
In this section, the study will look at the frequency, percentage, mean, mode, standard
deviation, and median of all the elements that influence pickpocket crime rates on tourist
decisions to visit Malacca. The research will also look at the correlation and reliability of
variables, as well as the demographic characteristics of respondents.

47

4.3.1.1 Demographic Analysis of Respondents

This is the first and most important step in determining the demographic profile of the
respondents to ensure their eligibility to be tested in this study and to comprehend the
characteristics that may influence respondents' perspectives on the research objectives
that must be discovered in this study. Age, gender, race, religion, number of visits to
Malacca, state, pickpocket experience in Malacca, and other demographic variables are
samples.

Demographic Data

Age, gender, ethnicity, religion, number of times visited Malacca, state, and
experience with pickpockets in Malacca are among the demographic factors investigated
in this study. Table 2 following reveal the demographic statistics of the respondents.

Table 2

Frequency and Percentage of Respondents Demography

Demography variables Frequency Percentage (%)

(n= 300) 153 51
147 49
Gender Female 215 71.6
68 22.7
Male
3 1
Age 18-25
8 2.7
26-33 5 1.7
1 0.3
34-41 219 73
50 16.7
42-50 28 9.3
3 1.0
Race 50-58 240 80
Religion Above 58 38 12.7
Malay 19 6.3
Chinese 3 1
Indian

Siamese
Islam
Buddhist
Hinduism
Christian

48

State Johor 34 11.3
Kedah 16 5.4
Times of Visited Kelantan 23 7.7
Malacca Kuala Lumpur 6 2
Experience with Malacca 24 8
pickpockets in Negeri Sembilan 4 1.3
Malacca
Pahang 73 24.3
Penang 6 2
Perak 39 13
Perlis 3 1
Sabah 5 1.7
Sarawak 1 0.3
Selangor 64
Terengganu 2 21.3
0.7
Ones 78
Twice 66 26
Thrice 44 22
More than thrice 112 14.7
37.3
Yes 3
No 297 1
99

This research has 300 respondents; the frequency and percentage of the
demographic profile of the respondents are shown in Table 2 above. Female respondents
outnumber male respondents, with 51% (153 votes) voting male and 49 percent (147
votes) voting female. With a total of 71.6 %, the overwhelming of respondents are
between the ages of 18 to 25 (215 voted). The remaining 28.4 % range in age from 25 to
over 58 years old. The majority of respondents are Malay, accounting for 73 % (219
votes), with the Chinese accounting for 16 % and the Indian’s accounting for 9.3%. The
Siamese, on the other hand, are a minority sample, accounting for 1% of the total.

49

This sample includes respondents from all states in Malaysia, with Pahangnese
(73%) and Selangorian (64%) constituting the majority. Johorean received 11.3% of the
vote, with 34 votes. Other states, such as Kelantanese, Kedahan, Malaccan, Perlisan,
Sabahan, Sarawakian, and others, have less than 10%. Around 26 % had visited Malacca
once, twice (22 %), three times (14.7 %), and more than three times (37.3 %). To
summarize, respondents enjoy visiting Malacca as a tourist destination for a variety of
reasons, one of which is the safety of Malacca itself, which is the major topic of this
research to be observed. Of the 300 respondents, 297 voted (99 %) that they had not
encountered any pickpockets while visiting Malacca, while the remaining 1% had been
victims. So, in general, Malacca is secure for everyone, although Malacca security
authorities do not take this remark lightly.

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4.3.1.2 Impact on Tourist Decision-Making to Visit Malacca
In this section, all the variables will be examined by their mode, mean, median, and
standard deviation. Table 3 shows the data analysis of these variables.

Table 3

Data analysis of Impact of Pickpocket Crime Rate on Tourist Decision-Making to Visit
Malacca

No. Rate of Impact Frequency Percentage Mean Standard Median/

(n=300) (%) Deviation Mode

a. Afraid to Strongly 71 23.7

eat outside Disagree

restaurants. Disagree 88 29.3

Neutral 52 17.3 2.67 1.362 2.00/2

Agree 47 15.7

Strongly 42 14

Agree

b. Afraid to Strongly 51 17

get out of Disagree

the hotel. Disagree 91 30.3

Neutral 54 18 2.86 1.337 3.00/2

Agree 57 19

Strongly 47 15.7

Agree 43 14.3

c. Afraid to Strongly 77 25.7
55 18.3 3.03 1.308 3.00/4
ride a Disagree 79 26.3
46 15.3
rickshaw in Disagree
39 13
Malacca. Neutral
48 16
Agree 45 15 3.38 1.350 4.00/4
96 32
d. Afraid to Strongly 72 24
walk at Agree
night. Strongly 42 14
Disagree
Disagree 39 13
Neutral
Agree

e. Afraid of Strongly
death. Agree
Strongly
Disagree
Disagree

Neutral 51 17

51

Agree 96 32 3.39 1.371 4.00/4
72 24
Strongly
62
Agree
81
f. Do not want Strongly 45 20.7
69
to get Disagree 43

acquainted Disagree 69 27
15 2.83 1.371
with the Neutral 77 23 3.00/2
54 14.3
locals. Agree 59
41
Strongly
71
Agree
66
g. Do not want Strongly 55 23
70
to try new Disagree 38

experiences. Disagree 55 25.7
18. 2.75 1.366
Neutral 53 19.7 3.00/2
71 13.7
Agree 75
46
Strongly
27
Agree
47
h. Do not want Strongly 81 23.7
101
to meet new Disagree 44

people. Disagree 61 22
18.3 2.79 1.368
Neutral 76 3.00/1
50 23.3
Agree 74
12.7
Strongly
Agree

i. Get injuries. Strongly 18.3 3.00/4
Disagree 3.00/4
Disagree 17.7 3.00/2
23.7 3.01 1.334
Neutral 25
15.3
Agree
9
Strongly
Agree 15.7
27 3.29 1.166
j. Loss of Strongly 33.7
money. Disagree 14.7
Disagree
20.3
Neutral
Agree 25.3
16.7 2.85 1.385
Strongly 24.7

Agree

k. Not Strongly

interested in Disagree

enjoying Disagree
the
nightlife. Neutral
Agree

52

Strongly 39 13

Agree 69 23

l. Not Strongly 71 23.7
44 14.7 2.83 1.389
interested in Disagree 75 25
41 13.7
visiting Disagree 3.00/4
historical Neutral 38 12.7 3.00/4
places. Agree 3.00/4
64 21.3 3.00/4
Strongly 71 23.7 3.09 1.237
88 29.3
Agree 39 13

m. Felt a Strongly 80 26.7

sudden fear. Disagree 64 21.3
46 15.3 2.70 1.347
Disagree 85 28.3
25 8.3
Neutral
33 11
Agree
62 20.7
Strongly 60 20 3.22 1.259
95 31.7
Agree 50 16.7

n. Not Strongly

interested in Disagree

traveling Disagree

anymore. Neutral

Agree

Strongly

Agree

o. Worried the Strongly

unfortunate Disagree

incident Disagree

happened Neutral

again. Agree

Strongly
Agree

Table 3 shows a statistical study of the influence of pickpocket crime rates on
respondents' decisions to visit Malacca. According to the data analyzed, most Malaysians
said that they are not scared to dine outside restaurants when visiting Malacca. 159 people
voted that they are not scared to eat outside of their hotel since Malacca is safe, and they
do not want to miss out on Malacca's distinctive food. 29.7 % are scared, and the rest are
unsure. This statement's mean is 2.67, the median is 2.00, and the standard deviation is
1.362. On the other side, over half of the respondents (47.3 %) are not scared to leave
their accommodation when visiting Malacca. However, half of them will also be secure

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to sight-seeing surrounding Malacca. The mean, median, and standard deviation for this
statement were 2.86, 3.00, and 1.337, respectively.

Table 3 (c) shows the data analysis of Malaysians who were scared to ride a
rickshaw in Malacca, with 41.6 agreeing that the rickshaw would hurt them as pickpocket
victims or victims of other tourism crimes such as snatching. According to past data
mining, the crime would take place in a busy area, and the victims will not reveal what
occurred to them. (ASP Muhammad Badrul Hisyam, 2021). Nevertheless, nearly half of
them believe that rickshaws are safe for them because no crimes have been reported there,
and no one will miss this unforgettable amusement in Malacca, the lovely rickshaws in
Malacca city. The mean value is 3.03, the median value is 3.00, and the standard deviation
is 1.308. In Table 3 (d), 56 % of Malaysians disagreed with the statement "Afraid to walk
at night." Malacca's nightlife is vibrant; why should tourists fear their own shadow? The
mean is 3.38, the median is 4.00, and the standard deviation is 1.350.

Table 2 (e) contains the phrase, "Afraid of death." According to the data analyzed,
56 %of Malaysians are not frightened of death (in terms of pickpockets in Malacca), 27
% are terrified of death in pickpocket crime in Malacca, and 17% do not plan to support
either side. The mean is 3.39, the median is 4.00, and the standard deviation is 1.351.
Meanwhile, 47.7 % disagreed and 37.3 % agreed with the statement "Do not wish to get
familiar with the locals" in Table 3 (f). Why should visitors have separated themselves
from the natives and missed out on the Malacca experience? The mean value is 2.83, the
median value is 3.00, and the standard deviation is 1.371. Table 3 (g) shows that 48.7
% of Malaysians wish to attempt new experiences when visiting Malacca, whereas 33.4
% do not want to find new memories in Malacca. The mean of this statement is 2.75, the
median is 3.00, and the standard deviation is 1.366 based on the data examined.

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In Table 3 (h), 45.7 % of those polled disagreed with the statement "Do not wish
to meet new people," while 36 % agreed. The mean is 2.79, the median is 3.00, and the
standard deviation is 1.368. Table 3 (i) shows the data analysis of Malaysians who would
be injured if they are picked up by pickpockets in Malacca. Most of them (40.3 %) agree,
while 36% disagree. The mean is 3.01, the median is 3.00, and the standard deviation is
1.334. Meanwhile, in Table 3 (j), 48.7 % believe that there would be a financial loss if the
Malacca tragedy occurs, while 31.7 % disagree. The mean was 3.29, the median was 3.00,
and the standard deviation was 1.166.

In Table 3 (k), 45.6 % are enthusiastic about going out at night, whereas 37.7 %
are not. Malacca is well-known for its vibrant nightlife in their city. The standard
deviation is 1.385, the mean is 3.29, the median is 3.00. On the other side, 46.7 % are not
interested in visiting historical sites since they are crowded and may be the scene of a
crime (see Table 3 (l). The standard deviation is 1.389, the mean is 2.85, the median is
3.00. According to Table 3 (m), most respondents (42.3 %) agree that they had
experienced a sudden dread, while 34% do not. The standard deviation is 1.237, the mean
is 3.09, the median is 3.00.

Table 3 (n) revealed the statements: "Not interested in traveling anymore," with
45.7% agreeing that they will not be interested in going even if they experience
difficulties. However, 36.6 % are not, and 15.3 % have no intention of joining either side.
The standard deviation is 1.347, the mean is 2.70, and the median is 3.00. The last data
point captured in the comment "Worried that the tragic occurrence may happen again."
Most respondents (48.4 %) agree with this statement, while 31.7 % disagree. The mean
was 3.22, the median was 3.00, and the standard deviation was 1.259.

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To summarise, the mean of each statement in Table 3 (a to o) ranges from 2.69 to
3.39. The statement with the greatest mean is (Afraid of death), while the statement with
the lowest mean is (Afraid to eat at outside restaurants). According to the data, the lowest
standard deviation is 1.166, and the greatest standard deviation is 1.389 which has a large
standard deviation, is widely spread (Not interested in visiting historical places). In a
detailed examination, most respondents acknowledge that Malacca is still safe for tourists
and that they are aware of the precautions that must be taken in these unforeseen
situations.

In contrast, this study yielded the same results as Harriott (2003), King (2003),
Sönmer (1998), Brunt, Mawby, and Hambly (2000), George (2010), Boakye (2012), and
Korstanje (2013). (2009). All these academics hope to do the study on visitors' perceptions
of safety and crime risk, as well as their perceptions of areas that are both appealing and
dangerous (Lisowska, 2017). With the same finding but different demographics of the
research, we know that tourists continue to travel while knowing they would be at risk at
any time and in any place.

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4.3.1.3 Correlation between Demography Variables and Impacts Statements

Table 4 (i-ii)
Correlation between Gender and Age Variables and Impacts of Pickpocket Crime Rate

on Tourist Decision-Making to Visit Malacca

i. Gender Variable

Impact 1. Impact 2.

Afraid to eat outside restaurants. Afraid to get out of the hotel.

Variable Female Male Female Male

Scale

Strongly 40 31 14 37

Disagree

Disagree 26 62 35 56

Not Sure 30 22 37 17

Agree 36 11 39 18

Strongly Agree 21 21 28 19

P-value 30.29 31.98

Chi-Square <0.00001 <0.00001

Value

Degree of 4 4

Freedom (df)

2 = (4, 300) = 30.29, =< 0.05 2 = (4, = 300) = 31.98, =< 0.05
Significant Value Significant Value

Impact 6:

Do not want to get acquainted with the locals.

Variable Female Male
Scale
Strongly 36 26
Disagree
Disagree 34 47
Not Sure 30 15
Agree 28 41
Strongly Agree 25 18
P-value
Chi-Square 12.17
Value 0.016
Degree of
Freedom (df) 4

2 = (4, = 300) = 12.17, =< 0.05
Significant Value

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ii. Age Variable

Impact 4.

Afraid to walk at night.

Variable 18-25 26-33 34-41 42-49 50-58 Above 58

Scale

Strongly 19 20 0 0 0 0
Disagree
Disagree 32 12 1 3 0 0
36 4 0 2 3 0
Not Sure 75 17 1 2 1 0
53 15 1 1 1 1
Agree
43.92
Strongly Agree 0.008

P-value 24

Chi-Square 2 = (8, = 102) = 20.49, =< 0.05
Value Significant Value
Degree of
Freedom (df)

Some variables may influence respondents' perceptions of the impact of
pickpocket crime rates on tourist decisions to visit Malacca. In this research, it is critical
to understand the relationship between demographic variables and certain statements
about the influence of pickpocket crime rates on tourism decisions to visit Malacca.
Table 4 shows the percentage of respondents who agreed with the assertions about the
effect matter. From the statement “Afraid to eat at outside restaurants”, the majority
are male (93 voted to disagree), and 66 women voted to disagree as well. On the
agreeable side, 57 women voted that they are scared to dine outside of a restaurant, while
32 males voted that they are not courageous to eat outside of a restaurant.

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According to Astro Awani news from 2013, four ladies have experience with the
snatch crime. "Yet, many women continue to fall prey to snatch criminals, particularly
in the city center." This message is clear proof that women are more likely to be victims
than males (Ahmad, 2013). Statistically, the P-value of this assertion is 30.29, the Chi-
Square value is <0.00001, indicating a significant value, and the degree of freedom is 4.

Next, when it comes to the phrase " Afraid to get out of the hotel.," 93 males
disagree, and 49 females disagree. It is demonstrated that male is the realm that is not to
be agreed upon. Meanwhile, 67 males are frightened to leave the hotel to go sightseeing,
and 37 females agree. The P-value is 31.98, the Chi-Square value is <0.00001, and the
stated value is significant. "The majority of victims are women traveling alone, who lose
more than just their goods and are frequently wounded or murdered as a result of the
attacks" (Fahad Rasol, 2017) his is the 2017 National Council of Women's Organizations
Malaysia (NCWO) report. It has once again been demonstrated that females are the
preferred victims in the country, particularly in snatching crimes.

In comparison to Fahad Rasol (2017), we can conclude from this study that the
tactic of criminal pickpockets is mainly hitting ladies with luxury or large purses.
According to ASP Muhammad Badrul Hisyam, criminals are intelligent to seek any
chance and they discovered the victims to be weak (not wanting to fight if they were
grabbed, while they brought along their handbag where this scenario was made worse).

Both men and women believe that they do not wish to become familiar with the
locals, even though Malacca has a high prevalence of pickpocket crime. Male (73 votes)
and female (70 votes) statements, both of which are equal. Meanwhile, 59 men and 53
women voted in favor of the agreement. To demonstrate, according to Fam et al., 2017,
the research found that ‘seeing life in a different culture' ranked first among the key

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driving elements to visit Malacca. It is demonstrated that both men and women are eager
to experience new cultures and meet new people, even though they are aware of the
dangers of crime in the area. The P-value is 12.17, and the Chi-Square is 0.016, both of
which are significant values.

Finally, there is a link between age and their propensity to stroll at night in
Malacca, even though Malacca is a hotspot for pickpocketing. Nonetheless, 128
respondents aged 18 to 25 agreed with this assertion, while 51 of the same age group
indicated they were not scared. Meanwhile, another age group of 26 to 33 years old is
in the middle of deciding whether they agree or disagree with this remark, with 32
votings agreeing and 32 votings not agreeing. This statement is significant with a P-
value of 43.92 and a Chi-Square of 0.008. To be more specific, most teenagers are not
frightened to stroll at night in Malacca when on vacation. According to ASP Muhammad
Badrul Hisyam's statement, the Tourist Police Unit patrols approximately 24 hours a
day, seven days a week. As a result, the youngster feels comfortable traveling in
Malacca.

To bolster the data, other researchers discovered, like this study, that the domain
of gender that is more concerned about safety and fears becoming the next victim of
pickpockets in tourist areas is women. This study was conducted in Croatia and
Slovenia. (Matakovic et al., 2020; Paliska et al., 2020) In terms of age, the bulk of the
people in the same journal study are between the ages of 18 and 33 (youngster level),
and the same is true for this research output.

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Paliska et al., (2020) claimed in their research that 52.6 % of their respondents
were women and 48.4 % were males. According to the findings of this study, women
account for 51% of all victims, while males account for 49%, indicating that women are
more likely to be victims. In the same study, they discovered that teenagers are potential
victims. According to their statistics, the proportion of people between the ages of 18
and 33 is 51.8 %, while the number of people over the age of 65 is 36.8 %. According
to the findings of this study, teenagers outnumber seniors by a margin of 94.3 %. With
this tangible evidence, we may conclude that women are the most likely pickpocketing
victims in Malacca, while youths are the most likely targets.

4.3.1.4 Reliability of Impacts Statements

Table 5

Reliability of statements of Impacts of Pickpocket Crime Rate on Tourist Decision-
Making to Visit Malacca

Impact Statement Mean Standard Deviation
a. Afraid to eat outside restaurants. 2.67 1.362
b. Afraid to get out of the hotel. 2.86 1.337
c. Afraid to ride a rickshaw in Malacca. 3.03 1.308
d. Afraid to walk at night. 3.38 1.350
e. Afraid of death. 3.39 1.351
f. Do not want to get acquainted with the locals. 2.83 1.371
g. Do not want to try new experiences. 2.75 1.366
h. Do not want to meet new people. 2.79 1.368
i. Get injuries. 3.01 1.334
j. Loss of money. 3.29 1.166
k. Not interested in enjoying the nightlife. 2.85 1.348
l. Not interested in visiting historical places. 2.83 1.389
m. Felt a sudden fear. 3.09 1.237
n. Not interested in traveling anymore. 2.70 1.347
o. Worried the unfortunate incident happened 3.22 1.259

again. 0.908
Cronbach Alpha’s Value

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Table 5 (a-o) shows the dependability claims that affect the crime rate of
pickpockets on tourist decisions to visit Malacca. According to the data, the highest
mean is 3.39, indicating that respondents are terrified about safety issues. When on
vacation in Malacca, the responder is scared to dine at outside restaurants, according to
the lowest-ranked mean, which is 2.67. Meanwhile, the standard deviation calculation
reveals that the statement "Not interested in visiting historical locations" has the greatest
distribution (1.389) among the other statements. While "Loss of money" is the lowest-
ranked statement (1.166). To be more exact, the Cronbach Alpha score is 0.908,
indicating that all the assertions of effect voted on by the respondents are excellent and
acceptable. As a result, a Cronbach's alpha of greater than 0.90 is considered "good"
internal consistency.

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4.4 SUMMARY OF FINDING
The study's goal was to assess the crime rate of pickpockets in Malacca in recent years,
to identify the authorities' solution to the pickpocket problem in Malacca, to depict
pickpocket hotspots in the Malacca region, and to assess the impact of pickpocket crime
rate on tourist decision-making to visit Malacca. Information from the interview session
and data analysis will be used to determine the response.

i. Crime Rate of Pickpockets in Malacca in Recent Years

Melaka recorded just 10 occurrences of pocket money in the past five
years, namely in 2015 (3 cases), 2016 (0 cases), 2017 (3 cases), 2018 (3 cases),
2019 (1 case), 2020 - 2021. There are no instances. So far, this small-scale crime
involving visitors and the general public has stayed under control. ASP
Muhammad Badrul Hisyam also warned tourists of the possibility of robbery and
armed snatching. The offender may also be aggressive and carry a weapon that
will hurt the victim. Worse, if the victim and the suspect get into a fight that
results in death or serious injury.

When asked if the victims were tourists, the response is no. There is no
record of international visitors becoming victims, even though the vast majority
of local tourists do. He claimed that women outweigh men in terms of gender,
and they range in age from 25 to 40. Based on this information, it is possible to
infer that Malacca is a safe area for tourists to visit, with few incidents of
pickpocketing. Malacca Police also guarantees that their team would manage the

63

cases that are not many and are causing harm to both foreign and domestic
tourists.

ii. Solution by The Authorities to Overcome the Problem

According to ASP Muhammad Badrul Hisyam, The Tourist Police Unit,
mobile police counters at tourism locations, distribution of awareness leaflets,
community meetings, and VSP (Volunteer Smartphone Patrol) are just a few of
the strategies and methods developed by the authorities to respond to and act
quickly in this situation.

The Tourist Police Unit aims to ensure the safety of tourists in Melaka,
particularly infamous tourist areas. Walking patrol, motorcycle patrol, patrol
vehicles, and cavalry soldiers are the four patrol units under this unit. Walking
patrol, motorcycle patrol, patrol vehicles, and cavalry soldiers are the four patrol
units under this unit. The cavalry unit was disbanded in 2010 and was replaced
by the Taming Sari Squad, which was created last year (2020) and consists of
six soldiers patrolling on Kawasaki motorcycles. The facility will be open from
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and then close at midnight.

In comparison, five ways to prevent pickpocketing are used in European
countries, including Boefproof, RAILPOL, police awareness vehicles, spray
templates, and, finally, a heat map. All of these strategies have been used in
Malacca, however, employing technology to prevent crimes has not. Malacca,
or Malaysia, might refer to this strategy as a heat map to trace the crime, and it
will raise awareness among the population, particularly visitors.

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iii. Pickpocket Hotspots in The Malacca Region

Jonker Street, the city's most renowned night market, is the most common
pickpocketing location in Malacca. This place earned 22.3% of the vote (67
votes). Snatchings occurred on Jonker Street in 2011. City Center (13.7 percent),
A Famosa (10 percent), Terminal Bus (6.3 percent), Riverbank (6 percent),
Klebang Beach (4.3 percent), and others were also chosen as hotspots by
respondents (3 percent). As a result, pickpockets might occur in a busy and
crowded environment.

Other researchers concluded that pickpocketing is more likely in busy
and crowded settings (Hipp, Bauer, Curran, & Bollen, 2004). (Quick, Law, &
Li, 2017). There are numerous tourist locations, such as beaches, bus terminals,
parks, and so on, that draw a significant number of tourists for sightseeing and
exploration, such as Malacca, which may end in an unanticipated crime.

iv. Impact on Decision-Making to Visit Malacca

In general, female respondents outnumber male respondents by a margin
of 51 percent (153 votes). Most respondents (71.6%) are between the ages of 18
and 25. (215 voted). Most replies are Malay, accounting for 73% (219 votes),
and the domain is Pahangnese (73%). Some responders have visited Malacca
more than three times (37.3%). 297 (99 percent) of the 300 respondents claimed
they had not encountered any pickpockets while in Malacca.

65

The mean of each statement of impacts on pickpockets’ crime rate on
decision-making to visit Malacca is between 2.69 and 3.39. (Afraid of death) is
the statement with the highest mean, whereas (Afraid of death) is the statement
with the lowest mean (Afraid to eat at outside restaurants). According to the
statistics, the lowest standard deviation is 1.166, and the highest standard
deviation is 1.389, which has a high standard deviation and is widely dispersed
(Not interested in visiting historical places). In a thorough investigation, many
respondents acknowledged that Malacca is still secure for visitors and that they
are aware of the measures that must be taken in these unanticipated scenarios.

Women are the gender group that is most concerned about safety and
fears becoming the next victim of pickpockets in tourist locations, according to
a correlation between demography profile and statements of impacts of
pickpockets’ crime rate would affect the decision-making of tourists in visiting
Malacca. Pickpockets in Malacca are most likely to terrify persons between the
ages of 18 and 33 (youngster level).

Lastly, the highest mean is 3.39, suggesting that respondents are
concerned about safety. According to the lowest-ranked mean, 2.67, respondents
feel afraid to dine in outside restaurants while on vacation in Malacca.
Meanwhile, the standard deviation calculation indicates that the statement "Not
interested in visiting historical places" has the widest dispersion (1.389) of all
the statements. While "money loss" is the lowest-ranked statement (1.166). To
be more specific, the Cronbach Alpha score is 0.908, suggesting that all the
statements of the impact that respondents voted on are outstanding and
acceptable.

66

CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSION

5.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter may conclude the findings of this research from the analysis in the previous
chapter; the outcomes of findings reveal the answers from the data mining which are
pulling out information from the interview session with ASP Muhammad Badrul from
Police Malacca Contingent Headquarters. To make this research more capable,
respondents' thoughts on the influence of pickpockets' crime rate on their decision-
making to visit Malacca were also investigated.

5.2 IMPLICATIONS
Prior publications, from the scholarly perspective of this research, have covered

criminal tourism across the world, particularly in tourist destinations. Tourism is, of
course, a significant input to the Malaysian economy. In 2019, tourism alone brought
in RM41.69 billion to Malaysia in just half a year. Whether we like it or not, tourism
crime is on the rise. Fortunately, the Royal Malaysian Police have taken control of
the situation (RMP). To look after and police Malaysian tourists, the Tourism Police
Unit was formed.

Furthermore, the sample assessed all these factors, and their frequency,
similarity, and reliability were examined from one to the other. These factors were
tested on a random sample of respondents in this study and are marginally
comparable to prior studies. This analysis, however, may offer a modest contribution

67

to understanding the influence of pickpocket crime rates on tourist decision-making
to visit Malacca and other research purposes.

From a practical standpoint, it may help Malaysians, as well as domestic and
foreign tourists, increase awareness among themselves regarding safety while on
vacation. Safety and security concerns impacted not just the tourist business, but also
the country's destination image, as well as the economic and finance industries. To
prevent further crime at tourism hotspot destinations, businesses operators should
implement safety and security steps to sustain the peacefulness at the destination.
Every nation must take substantial steps to preserve the tourist sector, particularly in
light of the safety and security issues (C.-H. Tan et al., 2017).

Discuss the practical implications for the tourist authority or state government
in resolving this issue and making it easier to meet the tourism aim of increasing the
economic sectors of tourism participants. Many proposals and plans have been voted
on in this study. Many respondents agreed that it would be beneficial to include a
smart map with the location of regularly occurring crime in the region, as well as
extra features of attraction sites and a reporting system in that application. Other
respondents stated that Malacca should strengthen patrols by the closed-circuit
television (CCTV) system in the tourism area. If there is a reported case made by
visitors, the police can identify crime and react immediately to the discovered crime
area.

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5.3 LIMITATION AND SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH
Because there is a dearth of in-depth research on this issue, the findings of

this study will motivate other scholars to conduct more research on safety in
Malaysian tourism destinations (the least popular topic to raise). Research must
improve data discovery and analysis by defining and applying it to the industry.
However, there is an issue with the data and the fundamental size of the data utilized
in this research. According to the suggestions given by half of the 300 people, they
want a location trace or a hotspot map that mentions tourism destinations and predicts
crime that may occur there. The limitation of this study is that we did not analyse
spatially the crime rate issues which therefore should be included in future research
with regards to pickpocket issues.

According to the preceding chapter, European countries are more advanced
in dealing with pickpocketing crime. They devised several tactics that engage a wide
range of stakeholders, including the community and government, and they employ
technology to combat crime in their nation. They have held several seminars on safety
(pickpocketing) across European nations. Malaysia should devise these solutions
employing cutting-edge technology and not dismiss this issue as trivial. For example,
Malacca police have strong communication with their community to create
awareness, but they haven't used technology. In today's world, technology is a
domain, and we must work with experts to exploit it for the protection of our nation.

69

5.4 CONCLUSION

This study aims to evaluate the crime rate of pickpockets in Malacca in recent
years, to identify the solution by the authorities to overcome the problem of
pickpockets in Malacca, to depict the pickpocket hotspots in the Malacca region, and
to assess the impact of pickpocket crime rate on tourist decision-making to visit
Malacca. These principles analyze the tourist perceptions and their thought about
safety in tourism destinations and investigate the frequency variables, the population
form and factors association, and the efficiency of all factors.

This research showed that the tourist put so much care on the safety level at
tourism destinations (pickpockets’ cases). Women are the most concerned about
safety and fear being the next victim of pickpockets in tourist areas. Pickpockets in
Malacca are most likely to frighten people between the ages of 18 and 33 (youngster
level). Fortunately, our Malaysian Police have a variety of strategies and solutions in
place to keep the crime rate in the tourist sector from skyrocketing.

In the future, there will be controlled criminal cases reported or implicated by
tourists because Malaysia has the lowest crime rate and is the safest place to visit.
According to the assurances given in previous interviews by ASP Muhammad Badrul
Hisyam, the Royal Malaysian Police would continue to monitor the tourism sector
and keep tourists safe. This research hopes that the future of the tourist sector will
have collaboration with the Royal Malaysian Police to construct a system to enhance
the security of tourism safety, such as a tourist-friendly safety program that people
may download on their phone, and it is the most engaging way to keep this issue from
becoming troublesome. Ultimately, a safe country is a comfortable place for tourists
to return.

70

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APPENDIX

i. Questionnaire Draft

Hello and good day to everyone. I am Chek Muhammad Hafizzuddin, a student of the
Tourism Research Project Paper course at the School of Tourism, Hospitality, and Event
Management (STHEM UUM). I'm researching Crime in Tourism: Pickpockets in
Malacca. The goals of this research are to examine the crime rate of pickpockets in
Malacca in recent years, to identify the authorities' response to the pickpocket problem in
Malacca, to estimate the influence of pickpocket crime rate on tourist decision making to
visit Malacca, and lastly to depict the pickpocket hotspots in the Malacca region. All
replies will be kept confidential and used solely for academic reasons. This survey would
only take approximately 10 minutes to complete.

Thank you in advance, and best wishes.

Section A: Demography (Please tick one space)

1. Gender Female
Male

2. Age 42-50 years old
50-58 years old
18-25 years old Above 60 years old
26-33 years old
34-41 years old

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3. Ethnicity Indian
Malay Other
Chinese
Christian Hindu
4. Religion Others
Islam
Buddha

5. State Pahang Kuala Lumpur
Kelantan Selangor
Perak Terengganu Melaka
Johor Sabah Negeri Sembilan
Penang Perlis
Kedah
Sarawak

6. Have you been to Malacca?
Yes No

7. How many times have you visited Malacca? (Give a range of time)

Never Three Times
One Times More than Three Times
Two Times

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8. Have you experienced pickpocketing during your last visit to Malacca?
Yes No

9. If yes, who was with you during the experience?

Family members Other: State it
Friends

10. Which area of Malacca do you believe will be a hotspot for pickpockets?
___________________________________________________________________.
11. If you have experience in the pickpocket incident in Malacca, can you tell us in
detail.
___________________________________________________________________.

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Section B:

The Impacts of pickpocket crime rate on tourist decision making to visit Malacca.

The response to this part will be calculated using the Likert Scale. Please mark each of
the following assertions with the appropriate remark in the circle to indicate how strongly
you disagree or strongly agree with each statement using the scale below.

1 2 34 5

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

No. Description 1 2345

1. I am afraid to eat outside restaurants.

2. I am afraid of getting out of the hotel.

3. I am afraid to ride a rickshaw in Malacca.

4. I am afraid to walk at night.

5. I am afraid of death.

6. I do not want to get acquainted with the locals.

7. I do not want to try new experiences.

8. I do not want to meet new people.

9. I will get injuries.

10. I will lose money.

11. I am not interested in enjoying the nightlife.

12. I am not interested in visiting historical places.

13. I am felt a sudden fear.

14. I am not interested in traveling anymore.

15. I am worried the unfortunate incident happened again.

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Section C:
Ending: Open-Questions
1. Give your opinion on how Malacca tourism can enhance tourist safety in tourism

sites.
______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________.
2. Do you need the location of pickpocket hotspots in Malacca to protect your safety?

Why?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________.

Thank you for your cooperation

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ii. Interview Transcript
Interview with the respondent (9 August 2021, Monday)

Respondent’s Background

Name : ASP Muhammad Badrul Hisyam bin Othman

Position : Staff Officer D4, Criminal Investigation Department, Malacca

Contingent Headquarters

Background : Aged 44, married and has three daughters. His wife is a teacher.

Served as D4 staff officer last year (2020).

Questions and Answers
1. In criminal law, what is meant by pocket crime, and under what act?

In Malaysian criminal law, the crime of pocket money is under the Penal Code,
sections 378 and 379. The crime of pocket money is the same as the crime of
theft, which is under the offenses against property. The meaning of pocket money
is the act of stealing someone's property without their knowledge and in the event
of a struggle and causing injury, the case will be charged under the crime of armed
robbery (sections 392, 394, 395, and 397).

2. In your opinion, is this criminal act still relevant or not for now for the safety of
tourism and the people of Melaka?
In my view, this act is still relevant because the punishment provision for this
crime is already heavy and warns the perpetrator. For your information, the
maximum fine for pocket crime is 7 years imprisonment, and snatch theft or
robbery is 20 years imprisonment.

3. What is the rate of pocket cases in Melaka in the last 5 years, from 2015 to 2021?
In Melaka, during the last 5 years, Melaka recorded only 10 cases of pocket
money, namely 2015 (3 cases), 2016 (0 cases), 2017 (3 cases), 2018 (3 cases),
2019 (1 case), 2020 - 2021 (0 cases). So far, this pocket crime involving tourists
and the public is still under control.

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4. Can you tell us about the hot spots around Melaka that have been reported on
cases of pocket money to tourists?
For me, the hottest locations that have ever been reported on this pocket case are
at Jonker Walk, the riverbank, A Famosa, and the Bus Terminal. No matter where,
if the pickpocket had a chance to commit a crime, he would continue to do so.
For your information as well, this pickpocket is not easy for ordinary people to
do and requires techniques so that the victim does not notice the items he has
stolen.

5. Apart from this pocket crime, what other crimes can happen to tourists in Melaka?
As I mentioned earlier, robbery and armed snatch theft can also happen to tourists.
The perpetrator can also act aggressively and carry a weapon with him that will
cause injury to the victim. Worse, if a scuffle between the victim and the suspect
results in death or serious injury.

6. According to the police reports you received, can I know how many cases involve
pocket money involving foreign and domestic tourists in Melaka?
The victim who has reported the case is also uncertain and we cannot assume he
is a foreign or domestic tourist. If the opportunity is open, surely the perpetrator
will act as well.

7. What about the age and gender categories that have been involved in pocket
money cases in Melaka?

According to the police reports I received, the victims ranged in age from 25 to
40 years. Most of them are women.
8. In July, I conducted a questionnaire to over 100 people who had visited Melaka.
On average they, when I asked where the most prone to pocket intricacies were
at Jonker Walk and A Farmosa were the highest. What is your view on this?
In my view, this involves self-neglect and lack of awareness of crowded places.
As we all know, when we are in a crowded place, there are bound to be unwanted
things without us feeling. The use of unsafe backpacks can also lead the
perpetrator to try to commit this pocket crime as a result of your negligence.

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9. Melaka is famous for its Tourist Police Squad which looks after the safety of
tourists. Can you explain about this squad and what are their functions?
The Tourist Police Unit aims to ensure the safety of tourists in Melaka, especially
in crowded tourist areas. This unit is divided into 4 patrol groups, namely
walking, motorcycling, patrol cars, and cavalry units. In 2010, the cavalry unit
was disbanded and replaced with the Taming Sari Squad which was established
last year (2020) with 6 members patrolling using Kawasaki motorcycles. The unit
will operate from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will continue until midnight.

10. Everywhere there is a danger that may happen to tourists in Melaka. In your
opinion, what strategic steps have the Melaka police force taken to ensure the
safety of these tourists?
If you come to a tourist area in Melaka City, you will come across a canopy that
houses officers on duty to be ready when receiving reports from tourists. We also
regularly distribute leaflets to remind tourists to be vigilant. We also often hold
meetings with the people of Melaka to say hello and take note of current issues
and listen to any complaints from them for us to take appropriate action.

11. What is the guarantee of the Melaka police to state that Melaka is safe from crime
to tourists who are still hesitant to travel to Melaka?
We, the Melaka police are always committed to ensuring the safety of the public
and tourists in Melaka. Tourists also need to always be sensitive to the safety of
themselves and their surroundings and as I mentioned before when opportunities
open up, crime will happen to you. We also constantly instruct the undercover
police unit to survey and take information from hotspots where these criminal
cases often occur. Tourists can also directly report complaints at our mobile
booths in the tourist area and they can also lodge complaints at the VSP
(Volunteer Smartphone Patrol). They can download this app on Google Play
Store.

~ Interview Session Ends ~

84

iii. Photos
85

GANTT CHART: CRIME IN TOURIS

MONTHS APRIL MAY JUNE 41
WEEKS 1 234 12 3 41 2 3
A. INITIAL PLANNING

• Research Title, Research
Objectives, Research Questions,
Problem Statements

• Discussion
B. CHAPTER 1

• Introduction, Terms Definition,
Scopes & Research Limit,
Research Significance

C. CHAPTER 2
Literature Review

D. CHAPTER 3
Methodology

E. DATA COLLECTING
• Interview & Questionnaire

F. CHAPTER 4
• Research Demography & Data
Analysis
• Discussion

G. CHAPTER 5
• Conclusion
• Appendix & Complementation

8

SM – PICKPOCKETS IN MALACCA

JULY AUGUST SEPT OCT NOV DEC

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 12 3 4 1 2 3 4

86