MELAKA: Bukit Aman plans to introduce Police Regulations (Conduct and Discipline) 2024 to expedite the process of dismissing problematic officers, as well as to enhance public confidence in the force.
Integrity and Standards Compliance Department (JIPS) director Comm Datuk Seri Azri Ahmad said the new regulations are intended to replace the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993 (PPPA (K&T) 1993), which he said were “too general and less suitable”.
He said suspension procedures under the existing regulations were not aligned with the specific needs of the force which required stricter operational and disciplinary measures.
“The police is entrusted with significant authority, so if a police officer is deemed unfit to serve, they must be removed immediately,” he told reporters at the state police contingent headquarters here yesterday.
Comm Azri also said the existing dismissal process under PPPA (K&T) 1993 was lengthy and inefficient.
“There should be specific police regulations to allow immediate action. We need to swiftly remove those who tarnish the image of the force.
“This move is not intended to victimise anyone, but is necessary because public expectation of the force is very high,” he said.
Comm Azri added that with the introduction of new regulations, managing disciplinary proceedings will become more efficient and effective without delays while upholding natural justice.
He also revealed that four police inspectors were among 16 personnel terminated from the force in January, with the remaining dozen being lower ranked personnel.
He said 114 cops were also facing disciplinary action for various offences over the same month.
“The majority of those dismissed were involved in drug-related offences, for possession or for drug use as confirmed through urine screening tests.
“These individuals were convicted in court before their services were discontinued.”
Comm Azri said that those dismissed went through the required disciplinary proceedings.
Earlier, Comm Azri witnessed the handing-over ceremony between acting Melaka police chief Senior Asst Comm Datuk Md Nazri Zawawi and incoming state police chief Deputy Comm Datuk Dzulkhairi Mukhtar.
DCP Dzulkhairi said his primary focus would be to collaborate with Federal agencies to ensure a conducive environment for tourists visiting the historic heritage state.
“We aim to reduce the ‘fear factor’ among tourists although the crime rate in Melaka is already low,” he added.
