The Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents (MIEA) has formulated a list of safety measures for property agents, following incidents of heinous crimes against them, according to a media report.
In a report by The Star, Siva Shanker, Deputy President at MIEA, said the institute is concerned about the murder and robbery cases perpetrated against property agents by so-called buyers. The most recent of which is the murder of Tang Yong Ching, whose body was found at Damansara, Petaling last week.
This leaves MIEA with no choice but to implement safety measure even though it would involve more work for both clients andagents, he said.
"The nature of our job is such that we are always open to abuse. We deal with strangers, sometimes at secluded places like an empty house."
As one of the safety measures, agents should "screen potential buyers and record as much information as possible like vehicle licence plate numbers before setting up appointments."
Agents should also meet their clients outside the premises before viewing the property and should be in constant communication with their offices.
As another safety step, property agents should "verify their customers, always work in pairs, not to set viewing appointments at night and register themselves at the property's guardhouse," he noted, adding that they have informed the agents to carry pepper spray for self-defence.
Moreover, an agent suggested the use of door-stoppers, so that they can "leave the door open at all times, making it more difficult for a would-be perpetrator to act."
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