KUALA LUMPUR: Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain's recent surprise visits to district police headquarters and stations reinforce accountability and rebuild trust in the force, watchdogs said.
Malaysia Corruption Watch president Jais Abdul Karim said such impromptu visits signalled a proactive approach towards oversight and accountability within the police force.
"The unannounced nature of these visits may ensure that standards are consistently upheld and procedures are followed diligently," he said.
"Regular, unannounced inspections can also prevent complacency and foster a culture of continuous improvement."
As such, Jais said, increasing the frequency of these checks could strengthen accountability and help maintain standards within the force.
Jais added that surprise visits by the country's top cop could reassure the public about addressing issues within the police force, especially following recent disciplinary and criminal cases involving the police that damaged their reputation.
"Transparency and visible efforts to address misconduct can rebuild trust in the police force.
"In addition to surprise inspections, the police should prioritise comprehensive training programmes focused on ethics, integrity and professionalism.
"They should also implement robust internal monitoring systems, encourage whistleblowing and promote a culture of accountability."
Jais said the police could also collaborate with external oversight bodies and engage the community.
Crime analyst Kamal Affandi Hashim said Razarudin's surprise visits facilitate unfiltered yet precise information exchange between the leadership and field operatives.
"It's refreshing to see the 'numero uno' of the police conducting unscheduled visits. It speaks volume of his hands-on management style," he said.
"Although recent events have put the police at a deficit, ongoing effort should focus on reviewing their training modules and shaping their identity."
Yesterday, Razarudin continued his surprise visits to the nation's district police headquarters and stations to inspect their daily operations.
This time, the nation's top police officer conducted a surprise check at the Nilai police headquarters command centre, as a follow-up to his visit to the Kajang command centre on Feb 10.
He also visited the Mantin police station in Negri Sembilan.
During his visits, he extended words of advice, encouragement and suggestions for improvements to the policemen on duty.
On Feb 2, Razarudin cautioned police chiefs that he would hold them responsible for any infraction by their subordinates.
This followed recent disciplinary and criminal cases involving the police that have tarnished their reputation among the public.
Razarudin insisted that these officers, particularly district police chiefs, must step up in leading their teams.
He also instructed supervisors in the police force to create a conducive work environment based on integrity.