KUALA LUMPUR: Police will use more officers with forensic science qualifications to assist in investigations which require DNA testing.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said these officers, including those with degrees and PhDs in forensic science, will be based at the Royal Malaysia Police College in the city.
Razarudin said the Malaysian Forensic DNA Database and technological advancements could help the police resolve cold cases.
He said it was even possible to reopen investigations into crimes committed 20 years ago if there is a DNA match.
"Before the establishment of the database in 2012, DNA profile comparisons were conducted on a one-to-one basis, meaning the DNA profile of a suspect would be compared to the DNA profile found at the crime scene."
Now the DNA profile found at the crime scene could be checked against profiles in the database.
"At present, the DNA technology used in the police's DNA lab is on par with the DNA labs of other international law enforcement agencies," he said.
Razarudin said DNA allowed the identification of a person because everyone's DNA was unique.
"Overall, the establishment of the DNA database helps increase our chances of resolving current and past cases."