Lee: Anti-corruption plan timely but must be set up successfully

KUALA LUMPUR: It is timely to set up the Royal Malaysia Police Anti-Corruption Plan (PAPDRM) but the authorities must ensure it is implemented successfully, says the Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF).

Foundation senior vice-chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the anti-corruption plan was welcomed as it would ensure the police serve with integrity.

“Having a plan is one thing but the most important thing is its implementation as well as constant review and monitoring.

“Once the plan is in place, the police will be under public scrutiny on whether the plan is implemented successfully or otherwise, ” he said when contacted.

He was asked to comment on the PAPDRM, which was launched by IGP Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador on Thursday.

Lee said the anti-corruption plan would help the image of the police force and enhance public confidence.

“We feel that this plan is much needed especially after recent reports of some police officers and personnel being involved in malpractices and other offences, ” he said.

“We believe the police are fully aware of such problems and introducing this anti-corruption plan is a step in the right direction, ” he added.

MCPF would always give its full support to a police force which act without fear or favour, as well as one that would serve and work with integrity, Lee said.

While it is expected that police personnel serve with integrity, Lee said that the government should always look into the welfare needs in terms of housing and allowances as well as fair opportunities for promotion.

The police have launched the anti-corruption plan to preserve the force’s image and as a guide for all officers and personnel in giving the best service to the people.

The IGP said the PAPDRM would chart the right path for the police force towards regaining the people’s trust in its credibility as the nation’s main law enforcement agency.

He said the police always ensured their members reject corruption.

Strict action, including termination of service based on Regulation 49 of the Public Officer Regulations 1993, had been taken against those involved in crimes, corruption as well as serious and habitual misconduct, he added.

Abdul Hamid said society had a negative perception of the police force, and its image had also been tarnished by the arrests of its personnel and officers for drugs and criminal offences, as well as corruption.

“It saddens me that the force is being ridiculed by society due to the actions of a few personnel and officers who are selfish and lack dignity.

“However, the anti-corruption plan, which will run until 2024, will help improve the police force’s service and image, ” he said.