KUALA LUMPUR: The police force must review and improve its training modules to focus not only on professional skills but also on fostering strong values, ethics, and integrity, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
In response to Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain’s candid comments about the challenges within the force, Lee, a member of the National Integrity Institute, emphasised that while only a small number of officers may be involved in misconduct, their actions can tarnish the reputation of the entire force.
"Thus, it is the right time for the police to review its training module," said Lee in a statement on Saturday (Nov 16).
"Training should also include how officers should react and report cases when the public offers bribes."
Lee also highlighted the need for counselling services to support officers, suggesting that minor infractions could be addressed with opportunities for reflection and rehabilitation.
Another area of concern, Lee noted, is the protection of whistleblowers within the force.
"There should be some mechanism for whistleblowers to report corruption cases within the force without fear of retribution.
"By instilling a strong moral foundation, we can help foster an environment where integrity is paramount, and those with corrupt tendencies are quickly identified and dealt with," he said.
Creating a culture that encourages transparency, integrity and accountability will not only deter misconduct but also promote a renewed sense of trust and respect for the police within the community, Lee said.
"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.
"Together, we can work towards a future where the Malaysian police force is seen as truly professional and a beacon of integrity and justice," he said.
On Friday (Nov 15), Razarudin publicly lambasted "bad apples" who have tainted the police force by working with criminals and breaking the law themselves.
Razarudin, in a strongly worded speech at the monthly assembly at Bukit Aman, said that statistics up until Sept have already shown an increase in police officers caught as suspects in commercial crime cases when compared to the whole of last year.
