KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 36 people, comprising Senate members and media personnel, received honorary ranks as Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM) officers today.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim handed over the appointment letters during a ceremony in Parliament.
Among those who received the honorary ranks were Deputy Education Minister Datuk Chong Sin Woon, Senator Datuk Seri Khairudin E. S. Abd Samad, Senator Datuk Fahariyah Md Nordin and Senator Rahemah Idris.
Speaking to reporters later, Shahidan said the presence of APM volunteers will help boost the number of volunteers who can assist the permanent personnel.
For instance, Shahidan said the volunteers have begun joining the enforcement team at the Selayang market, which has a high crime rate.
“Each day we have between 500 and 1,000 volunteers taking part in operations at the Selayang market.
“Many without documents will start running away," he said.
On whether APM volunteers will be sent to other markets, Shahidan said this would be based on demand.
“If the local authorities ask for our help, we will help," he added.
APM presently has two million volunteers.