Public to see a friendlier police force

By Lee Shi-Lan, NST

A polite, courteous and professional policeman, this is what the public can expect when the first batch of 2,000 “gentleman officers” passes out in September.

“Gentleman officers” is the vision of the newly appointed police training camp commandant Senior Assistant Commissioner Zulkifli Mohamed.

“The people have high expectations of the police force and we must be ready to meet these demands. Times are changing and so must the police.”

“This is also in line with the Government Transformation Programme which emphasises the policemen’s attitude in discharging their duties.”

Zulkifli said previously, the emphasis was on solving crimes and keeping the peace. Now, however, a policeman has several other hats to wear, especially in small communities.

“A policeman must also be a friend, counsellor, role model and a mediator, among other things. So, the concept of a gentleman officer will come in handy.”

He said the public must feel comfortable with the police, who in turn, should be able to empathise with the needs of the complainant.

“The concept of a gentleman officer is simple, they must possess qualities which encompass the physical and the spiritual,” he told the New Straits Times.

“Physically, policemen should be well-groomed and carry themselves well, especially when they are in uniform, as it represents the force.

“Whether walking or sitting, they should conduct themselves with decorum befitting their status as guardians of the peace,” Zulkifli said.

He said a gentleman policeman should not smile or scowl unnecessarily. The key was to strike a balance depending on the situation.

“They must be tough when the need arises. Spiritually, they should be honest, principled and possess a sense of integrity.

The training of “gentleman officers” will begin with 2,000 fresh cadet constables who are expected to enrol next month, and 1,000 cadet inspectors in March.

Zulkifli said there were three basic factors he intended to drill into the fresh recruits, namely, knowledge, skill and a change in attitude.

“The average training period for each batch of cadets is nine months. Where skills are concerned, the recruits will be taught interpersonal and leadership skills so that they will be able to carry out their duties efficiently.

“This will, in turn, help to shape their attitude before they join the police force, building their confidence and ensuring that they stand tall.”