IGP in tears as he delivers farewell speech for retiring comrade Mazlan

-Bernamapic

KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador said that his friendship with Datuk Mazlan Mansor was built over 40 years and it is hard to say goodbye to his comrade.

The Inspector-General of Police was in tears as he was reading his farewell speech for the Deputy IGP, who is retiring on Friday (Aug 14).

"I tried very hard to not be emotional but my camaraderie with him is over 40 years.

"He was my deputy for 15 months and I could not ask for a better right hand man as I fully trusted him," Abdul Hamid told a press conference after witnessing the handing over ceremony between Mazlan and Comm Datuk Seri Acryl Sani, who is now the acting Deputy IGP, on Thursday (Aug 13).

The IGP also hinted that Mazlan would be appointed to a post by the government, which will be announced by the Prime Minister later.

Earlier in his speech, Abdul Hamid said he would be eternally grateful to Mazlan for "having his back" throughout his 15 months.

"It is hard to see him go especially when we have worked hand-in-hand to strengthen the police force and bring it back to its glory days.

"I have given him my trust and it goes both ways. He had honoured me with his high work rate and excellent job performance," he added.

"Actually, words don't do justice to show the service of Mazlan to the country

"I am eternally grateful to have been blessed with a deputy who is not just a squadmate but a trusted confidante and comrade," the IGP said.

Abdul Hamid also expressed his confidence that Acryl Sani would be able to be a good Deputy IGP.

He said the police were still waiting for the official consent of Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdulllah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah on the appointment of Acryl Sani as Deputy IGP.

"He has vast experience due to helming various posts including as director of the Internal Security and Public Order department," he said

Meanwhile, Mazlan in his speech recalled how the IGP would often refer to him as DP (Datuk Pahlawan).

"At the office, he would often shout DP as he was entering my office and my answer would always be 'Yes Sir'.

"Serving as his deputy has been the biggest honour of my career.

"He, my squadmate, is an officer and a gentleman and a very astute leader," he said.

"After 19 years and three months, it is time to say goodbye to the police force but I rather say hello to a new journey," he said.

Mazlan was also presented with a memento of his daily jottings throughout his career, which will also be archived as reference for other personnel and officers.

"My habit is to write out the tasks I have daily on any post as well as my recommendations and observations on the police force.

"I hope my gift to the police will be able to help in any way," he said.