Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye
KUALA LUMPUR: The allocation for police accommodation is long overdue but more funds should be allocated to improve housing for police personnel nationwide, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
The Alliance for Safe Community chairman said the RM42mil allocated in Budget 2023 to maintain and upgrade police quarters was not sufficient.
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"Housing for police personnel, especially those in the lower ranks, has been dilapidated for many years.
"I have often spoken on this issue as the men and women in blue should be given better accommodation," he said when contacted Monday (Oct 10).
The budget allocated for police housing is a small sum compared to the large number of police quarters around the country, he added.
"I always believe if police personnel are given decent accommodations, they will be able to serve with better spirit.
"They will be able to focus on their work performance as they are assured that their families are living in decent homes," he said.
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While he lauded the RM431mil allocated to acquire new police assets, Lee said the needs of policemen on the ground should be studied in greater detail.
"I suggest the police force take steps to improve mental health awareness among its personnel.
"There is no doubt police work comes with tremendous (pressure)... they need to be in good mental health to enable them to manage stress as they carry out their daily duties," he said.
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Lee hoped mental health education would be provided to police personnel.
"The police should also provide more soft skills training in terms of handling the public more efficiently.
"For example, mastering additional languages would help personnel and officers communicate with the public," he added.
