Outgoing IGP Razarudin proposes the creation of a dedicated police ministry

KUALA LUMPUR, June 20— Outgoing Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Razarudin Husain has proposed the establishment of a dedicated ministry for the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), citing the force’s critical role in national security and its stature equivalent to key ministries such as defense, health, and education.

Speaking at the official handing-over ceremony and his retirement send-off at the Kuala Lumpur Police Training Centre (Pulapol) on Friday, Razarudin said a formal proposal had already been submitted to both the Prime Minister and the Home Minister for consideration.

He noted that several countries, including China, Brazil, Vietnam, South Korea, and Brunei, have already adopted the model of a dedicated police ministry, which enhances efficiency and autonomy in law enforcement administration.

“I see this as a crucial step to ensure that PDRM remains relevant and capable, particularly in navigating the demands of globalization and the challenges of the digital age,” Razarudin said during his farewell address.

The proposal is expected to spark discussions on restructuring Malaysia’s law enforcement governance, especially as the country seeks to modernize its policing strategy amid evolving domestic and transnational threats.

Earlier in the ceremony, Razarudin officially handed over leadership of the police force to his successor, Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail, who has pledged to build on his predecessor’s legacy and embrace technological innovation, including the use of artificial intelligence, to strengthen the force.

Razarudin’s suggestion shows that many security experts believe having specialized management for police organizations could improve their focus, how they use resources, and their ability to operate independently in a complicated security situation.