WHILE RM2.12bil allocated for specialised assets for the police and other agencies under the Home Ministry is lauded, it should be balanced by providing the necessary training to handle the equipment.
Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia president Datuk Meor Chek Hussien Mahayuddin said enforcement officers must be equipped with sufficient assets and training so that their skills can be used to curb crimes.“Both aspects should go hand in hand.
“Enforcement officers, especially the police, must be given proper training in various fields to be one or two steps ahead of the criminals.
“If police officers are only given tools without expertise, it will be pointless,” he said.
Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said more than RM1.8bil allocated to build, repair and maintain public servant quarters, including the police and the Fire and Rescue Department, is vital to ensure the welfare of these personnel.
“Ensuring better living conditions is very important as it will go a long way to motivate the personnel to perform better in their duties.
“The sum allocated is a lot but it may not be sufficient to cover all public servants. If the funds are not enough, it should be increased,” he said.
Lee said the overall RM19.5bil allocation for the Home Ministry is justified, given the important role the ministry plays in ensuring the safety and security of the people.
“However, the allocations should be properly utilised and not lead to any leakages and wastage.
“Those who are authorised to spend the funds should do so with utmost integrity as it involves public funds,” he said.
Malaysians Against Rape, Assault and Snatch Thief founder Dave Avran said proper enforcement should accompany the RM560mil allocation to strengthen border security.
“The allocation, which includes funding the construction of two border posts in Sabah and equipping enforcement officers with drone and AI technology, is timely.
“However, it will not be effective if enforcement is lax, or worse, still compromised,” he said.
Efforts to strengthen border security should have a proper standard operating procedure to prevent abuse or mismanagement, he added.
