IGP Datuk Seri Abdul Hamid Bador’s dramatic return as top cop — after enduring the rigmarole for speaking out against the 1MDB scandal — is poised to realise the creation of the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission.
This commission is an important component to restore the force’s tainted image. An exemplary police force is only as good as the people behind it — this is the job that Hamid and his officers have taken up.
Within 30 days, Hamid has established the direction of the force — to weed out corruption, which he knows is endemic.
Identify crooked cops, eliminate corruption, maintain efficiency and effectiveness, and we will have a first-class police force.
Presently though, a section of the public is against them. As Malaysia Association of Certified Fraud Examiners president Datuk Seri Akhbar Satar succinctly puts it: “The police must work towards zero corruption and be committed to fighting corruption and malpractice at every level.”
Understandably, some cops, encumbered by low salaries, are lured by easy money. While economic conditions may not be rosy all the time, one must strive to live within his means — doting on your family does not mean resorting to soliciting duit kopi.
Such challenges can be overcome. We must remember, most policemen are dedicated public servants who are sworn to protect public safety at all times.
Their priorities — the safety, honour and welfare of the country and its people. They are proud of their uniform. For them, being part of the force is not just a profession, it is a vocation to make alive the aspiration behind the royal police emblem. But more can be done to perfect the racial representation in the force to reflect inclusivity.
Hamid lamented a few setbacks that besieged his men despite their unwavering commitment, such as in the case of Datuk Seri Akhil Bulat, who was unceremoniously removed from his position as Special Branch head six days ahead of his retirement.
However, Hamid’s gripping rise as top cop has assuredly put to rest such indiscretions. His warning to senior police officers to end any nexus with the underworld is also seen as a prominent step to realign the force’s moral code and ethics.
Indeed, a police officer’s task is significantly difficult today — crimes are more sophisticated, therefore the force needs to be well-equipped with the required skills. Hence, the budget should include a pay rise for police personnel, logistics and requirements — the police chief would then be able to deploy his officers to the greatest effect.
Already, the whole repertoire of new sciences and competencies are represented in the force. The likes of criminologists, digital forensics and ballistics experts and DNA analysts must be included in the future roster to bolster the force.
The United Kingdom, France and Germany have one thing in common — their police are among the best in the world.
They have earned their places in society by combating crime and ensuring rules, regulations and laws are followed. Our men in blue are not far off from such objectives, if only all, including the executives, adhere to a strict code of conduct and requirements.