Penang: A total of 1,429 senior and junior officers of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) faced disciplinary action, including 134 dismissals, throughout last year. Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay has emphasized that PDRM is committed to taking firm action against any officers found guilty of an offense, ensuring the integrity of the force is maintained.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ayob Khan revealed the disciplinary measures imposed on the officers and personnel, stating that 819 received warnings, 211 were fined, 190 had their emoluments forfeited, 18 faced salary movement suspension, 34 experienced salary reductions, 23 were demoted, and 134 were dismissed. These actions were taken in response to various forms of misconduct, with the highest number of cases related to integrity issues, totaling 1,072. Other offenses included crime (98 cases), drug abuse (95), governance violations (91), syariah-related offenses (40), and corruption (33 cases).
Ayob Khan acknowledged that while the number of disciplined officers and personnel represents a small fraction of the total police force, which comprises approximately 130,000 members, the impact on the PDRM's image is significant. He stressed that even a small group can tarnish the force's reputation and undermine the efforts and achievements of the team, necessitating uncompromising action.
He elaborated that PDRM has established an internal investigation mechanism through its Integrity and Standards Compliance Department (JIPS), complemented by external oversight from the Independent Police Conduct Commission (IPCC) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN). Members of the public dissatisfied with the outcomes of internal investigations are encouraged to file complaints with the IPCC.
Ayob Khan further emphasized the importance of integrity as a cornerstone for maintaining public trust in the security forces and as a pillar of organizational effectiveness. He noted that in today's technological era, misconduct can be easily recorded and shared, highlighting the need for every member of the force to demonstrate a high level of integrity in their actions.