Two female bodyguards were seen on a moving vehicle during the summit. — Screencap from social media
PETALING JAYA: A viral video of two female security escorts jumping onto a moving SUV while escorting foreign VIPs during the recent 47th Asean Summit has drawn widespread public attention.
While most praised the move akin to those seen in action movies, there were a few others who questioned whether it was necessary.
The police and security experts say the dramatic manoeuvre is a standard and calculated routine for VIP protection protocol.
Comm Azmi: ‘Such action is required depending on the circumstances.’
Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department director Comm Datuk Seri Azmi Abu Kassim said police security escorts are required to conduct expedient security manoeuvres, including climbing onto moving vehicles.
“Such action is required depending on the circumstances, but it is not done often. For example, like the recent Asean Summit, it requires the police to provide security for various VVIPs. Thus certain security manoeuvres are a must,” he said.
Comm Azmi said it is not wise to make light of security protocols conducted by police officers and security personnel, especially during an important occasion such as the Asean Summit.
“Ultimately, our goal is to ensure the safety and security of everyone attending the event.
“There is no showboating or even grandstanding as all police personnel and officers on duty are staying vigilant and preventing any untoward incident from occurring,” he added.
On the recent Asean Summit, Comm Azmi said more than 10,000 police officers and personnel did exceptionally well.
“The security for the event was top-notch, and we were able to ensure the event went smoothly.
“It was a huge undertaking, but the police force stepped up to their challenge and delivered world-class service,” he added.
Comm Azmi also saluted the public for giving their full cooperation throughout the summit despite the various road closures and diversions.
“We are truly grateful for the patience and understanding shown by members of the public throughout the summit,” he said.
Calculated moves: (Left) A female bodyguard leaping onto a moving vehicle while escorting foreign delegates during the recent 47th Asean Summit.
Meanwhile, Asian Security Services director Datuk Dr S. Prabakaran said the security manoeuvres, which appear risky, are a critical part of what professionals call the “transition phase”, the moment when a VIP moves from a static position, such as exiting a venue into a moving convoy.
“It is basically what we expect a professional bodyguard to do when the movement goes from static to transition.
“This is a critical few seconds when the VIP remains vulnerable to threats such as physical attacks, sudden disruptions or crowd interference,” he said.
By standing on the side of the vehicle, often on footboards, bodyguards gain a 360° view of the surroundings for rapid response should any threat arise.
While many online users described the act as dangerous, Prabakaran said such manoeuvres are risk-managed and precisely timed based on situational assessments.
“From the video, the vehicle only moves at a constant speed of around 10 to 15kph.
“This allows trained and professional bodyguards to perform the movement diligently while ensuring safety and readiness,” he said.
He added that every professional bodyguard undergoes rigorous training and tactical evaluations to ensure smooth coordination during motorcade operations – including assessments of threat levels, vehicle distance, the surroundings and convoy speed.
“By putting every aspect together, the action, while some believe is dangerous, is actually the result of well-rounded training and observation,” he said.
On balancing professionalism and public perception during high-profile international events, Prabakaran said coordination between multiple agencies and delegations is key.
“In big events like the Asean Summit, there will be a standard protocol set by enforcement authorities and official delegations from each country.
“Teams must coordinate closely with event organisers, the police and protocol officers to ensure every movement aligns with expectations,” he said.
He added that collaboration between local and foreign protection teams is crucial to ensure all tactical manoeuvres are executed with precision, discipline and respect for public perception.
“The bottom line – one must be very careful and ahead of all variables that may arise while handling such a big event,” he added.
