The appointment of Malaysia’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIGP) is not merely an administrative formality; it is a decision that carries profound implications for the country’s democracy, rule of law, and public trust in the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
At present, these appointments are legally governed by Article 140 of the Federal Constitution and Section 5 of the Police Act 1967, with processes designed to balance professional evaluation and political oversight. However, in practice, serious concerns arise about transparency, independence, integrity, and meritocracy, warranting urgent public attention and reform.
Under the current system, the Police Force Commission, chaired by the Home Affairs Minister, is responsible for recommending candidates for the two top police positions. These recommendations are reviewed by the minister, forwarded to the Prime Minister, and subsequently presented to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for formal appointment.
While this process appears procedurally sound, it remains opaque to the public and heavily dominated by political actors, raising legitimate concerns about potential political interference and the undermining of institutional integrity.
The close proximity of political figures to the appointment process inevitably invites perceptions — and at times, allegations – of favouritism, political patronage, or expectations of loyalty. In a democracy, the police force must not only be impartial but must also be seen to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
The independence and integrity of police leadership are crucial to ensure that law enforcement operates free from political manipulation, particularly when it comes to investigations involving political elites or government institutions. A police leadership compromised by political influence cannot command public trust or effectively uphold the rule of law.
The absence of clear and publicised criteria for selection exacerbates these suspicions. Malaysians are often left in the dark about why a particular individual is chosen for the nation’s top policing role.
• Is it based on seniority?
• Operational competence?
• A proven track record of integrity?
• Or loyalty to certain political leaders?
Without transparent criteria and an open, merit-based process centred around integrity, appointments risk being perceived as serving political ends rather than the public interest.
Critically, the focus on seniority as the default criterion, while important, should not outweigh the need for visionary leadership, a strong moral compass, commitment to reform, respect for human rights, and unwavering professional integrity.
Today, the force faces immense challenges – from organised crime to cybersecurity threats, combating corruption, and rebuilding community trust. Top leadership must not simply be experienced; it must be forward-thinking, ethically grounded, and willing to drive necessary reforms, even when politically inconvenient.
The appointment of the deputy IGP follows a similar process and suffers from similar vulnerabilities. It is often seen as a natural stepping stone to the IGP post, yet the selection remains largely a closed-door affair.
Greater transparency, merit-based evaluation, and emphasis on personal integrity would not only enhance public trust but also boost morale within the force, assuring officers that promotions to the highest ranks are genuinely based on character and ability, not on patronage.
Additionally, the lack of independent oversight stands out as a glaring weakness. While the Police Force Commission nominally provides oversight, its composition – heavily influenced by the executive – limits its independence.
To safeguard impartiality and integrity, the Police Force Commission must have no role whatsoever in the appointment of the IGP and DIGP. Similarly, the Home Affairs Minister must be completely removed from the process, given the inherent risks of political interference.
Instead, a truly independent selection body should be established, composed of respected individuals from the judiciary, academia, civil society, and the professional sectors – all known for their integrity and impartiality. This body must be entrusted to assess and recommend candidates based on publicly known, merit-based criteria, focusing on leadership ability, ethical conduct, public service values, and steadfast integrity.
Crucially, this independent body must report directly to Parliament, where a transparent vetting and approval process can take place.
Upon Parliament’s approval of the selected candidate, the final appointment must rest solely with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, who, as constitutional monarch and a symbol of national unity, embodies neutrality, fairness, and integrity. The Agong’s final say – who is also the Honorary Commissioner-In-Chief of the Federal Police Commission – would ensure that appointments are made free from political pressures, preserving the dignity and independence of the police force.
The issue of contract extensions and early retirements further complicates public perception. At times, contract renewals for IGPs appear abrupt or politically motivated, rather than the result of transparent performance evaluations rooted in merit and integrity. This undermines the stability of police leadership and raises concerns about undue political pressure influencing policing priorities.
While Malaysia’s constitutional and legal framework provides a basis for appointing the IGP and DIGP, it falls short of modern expectations for transparency, independence, and public accountability.
Given the vital role of the police in safeguarding democracy and upholding citizens’ rights, urgent reforms are needed. These should include:
• Clear, publicly available criteria for appointments;
• Removal of political actors from the selection process;
• Establishment of an independent body reporting to Parliament;
• A strict emphasis on integrity as a core requirement; and
• Ultimate approval by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
In particular, it is crucial that the final say on the appointment of the IGP and DIGP rests firmly with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, who stands above politics and embodies national unity and fairness.
Strengthening the Agong’s role as the ultimate arbiter would serve as a vital safeguard against political interference and reaffirm public confidence in police leadership.
If Malaysia is to continue progressing towards a mature, accountable democracy, it must ensure that its top police appointments reflect not the political needs of the day, but the enduring principles of justice, impartiality, integrity, and service to the people.
