KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail is the country’s new top cop.
He has been appointed the 15th Inspector-General of Police, taking over from Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.
He was previously the Bukit Aman Special Branch director.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said Mohd Khalid will serve on contract for two years.
“Mohd Khalid has extensive experience in policing and possesses strong and competent leadership qualities to continue the legacy and responsibilities of leading the police force.
“On behalf of the government, I would like to express our highest appreciation to Tan Sri Razarudin for all his contributions and dedicated service throughout his tenure as the Inspector-General of Police,” Saifuddin Nasution said in his speech yesterday.He presented Mohd Khalid with the appointment letter as well as installed the rank of IGP to him before witnessing the handing-over ceremony between the latter and Razarudin.
“Being appointed as the IGP carries with it responsibility and accountability. Rather than a gift, it is a heavy burden but I am sure Mohd Khalid will be able to shoulder it well,” he said.
Meanwhile, artificial intelligence is among the key areas that will be looked at by the newly-minted IGP.
“I will carry on the legacy of my predecessor. This will be an opportunity for me to increase the police’s capabilities in combating crime, including cross-border crime.
“I hope to also carry the force to greater heights in line with the changes of modernisation.
“The use of artificial intelligence is something we must put forward so that the force is more advanced to combat issues and threats,” Mohd Khalid said when met by reporters.
In his speech, Razarudin expressed confidence that his successor would be able to lead the police force to greater heights.
“I wish him nothing but the best in helming our beloved police force,” he said.
Razarudin officially concluded his service as the country’s top cop, marking the end of his two-year tenure.
Appointed on June 23, 2023, as the 14th IGP, Razarudin had served the force for 42 years.
He was accorded a memorable send-off in the time honoured tradition of the police force dubbed “beating the retreat”.
