LETTERS: I welcome and support the Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain for his candid remarks about the challenges within the police force.
It is crucial to recognise that while only a small number of "rotten apples" exist within the force compared to the majority of dedicated and honest police personnel, they have the potential to spoil the barrel.
These few can cast a long shadow over the entire organisation, undermining the hard work and dedication of the 130,000 members of the force.
I share Razarudin's concern about what appears to be an increasing trend.
Last year, 22 officers were found culpable. In the first nine months of this year, that number has already reached 23.
If unchecked, the actions of these few individuals could lead to mistrust and scepticism among the public. This is why taking concrete action now is imperative.
This is an opportune moment for the police force to review and enhance their training modules. These should emphasise not only professional skills but also the importance of good values, ethics, integrity, and strong work performance.
Everything starts with training, which should also include guidance on how officers should react to and report cases when the public offers bribes.
Additionally, counselling services should be available. In cases of minor infractions, there could be opportunities for reform and a chance for individuals to turn over a new leaf.
Another area that warrants attention is whistleblower protection. Mechanisms should be in place to allow whistleblowers to report corruption within the force without fear of retribution.
By instilling a strong moral foundation, we can foster an environment where integrity is paramount, and those with corrupt tendencies are quickly identified and dealt with.
Creating a culture that encourages transparency, integrity, and accountability will not only deter misconduct but also promote renewed trust and respect for the police within the community.
It is time to champion the values that define a truly honourable and efficient police force, reinforcing the message that corruption has no place in our law enforcement institutions.
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
Member
National Intergrity Institute
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times