PUTRAJAYA: The Home Ministry adopts a "zero tolerance" approach to discipline issues and breaches of work ethics among police personnel.
During his speech at the ministry's monthly assembly, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the top leadership would not take this lightly as it could adversely affect the police force.
"We feel disappointed and angry (that this happened continuously), as Tan Sri Razarudin Husain (Inspector-General of Police), Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay (DIGP) and Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain (Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director) have reiterated it.
"As the largest enforcement agency in the country, we cannot take this lightly, we cannot attribute such cases to just a few individuals, given that we have over 120,000 strong and a competent police force.
"However, there are certain individuals whose actions have tarnished their reputation, which is unfair to the dedicated majority," he added.
Meanwhile, he said he wants the public to understand that the police commitment to their sacred duty cannot be questioned.
"When disciplinary violations occur, we have the Police Force Commission, of which I am the chairman," he said.
When asked whether the ministry will review recruitment criteria, Saifuddin said such a step was unnecessary due to the high number of applicants when job opportunities arise.
He said the interview panel told him the applicants were multitalented, with several language proficiencies.
"We received nearly 35,000 to 40,000 applications for each vacancy, but only a small number were accepted.
"Many applicants have diverse skills, including proficiency in multiple languages and professional qualifications," he said.
He said this indicates high interest in joining the police force.
"I believe that for now, we can mitigate this problem with the syllabus criteria, considering the applicants," he said.
Regarding the number of slots in the Police Conduct Commission (IPCC), Saifuddin said the current five-member panel was sufficient for their operations.
"I am confident in their abilities to function effectively with the current number.
"However, if the need arises to increase the number, I will expedite the process. This will also allow us to scout for additional talent," he said.