Spatial Distribution Patterns of Vehicle-Etching Cases in Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Abstract

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are increasingly recognized across industries, with growing demand for system development in various sectors such as logistics, transportation, utilities, and government, particularly in crime mapping. However, crime databases in Malaysia currently lack spatial integration, especially in forensic applications. This study analyses the spatial distribution patterns of vehicle-etching cases in Johor Bahru District, Malaysia. The study has three main objectives: (1) to identify challenges in managing databases and information related to vehicle etching cases, (2) to develop a geospatial database integrating spatial data with existing crime records, and (3) to analyse the spatial distribution of etching cases within Johor Bahru District. The research methodology is divided into three phases: formulating the research background, data pre-processing and database design, and spatial distribution analysis. This study focuses on vehicle-etching cases within the jurisdiction of the Johor State Police Headquarters (IPK Johor). The results consist of non-spatial and spatial analyses. The non-spatial analysis examines case distributions based on vehicle type, colour, model, and quarterly trends. The spatial analysis includes five key components: heatmap and hotspot analysis, mean centre analysis, and spatial distribution pattern analysis. Findings indicate that the Pandan-Larkin and Kota Masai areas are the main hotspots for vehicle-etching cases. At the same time, mean centre analysis highlights the Bakar Batu-Tebrau area as a key location. Nearest Neighbour Analysis and Spatial Autocorrelation reveal an overall clustered distribution pattern. However, when analysed by Parliamentary boundaries, distribution patterns vary, exhibiting random, clustered, and dispersed patterns. This study underscores the importance of integrating spatial data into crime databases for improved forensic analysis and crime prevention strategies.