Top Malaysia cop exiting before polls ‘to avoid flak’
(Straits Times) – Analysts say he would otherwise be a magnet for opposition criticism over protection rackets
Malaysia’s police chief confirmed yesterday that he will retire next month, after speculation intensified that his appointment could be extended until after a general election due to be held by next August.
“(I’m) to retire on Sept 4,” Inspector-General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar told The Straits Times via WhatsApp message, adding that he will not be seeking an extension of service.
Tan Sri Khalid is seen as a stable and constant ally of the ruling coalition, but observers say controversy about his alleged links to a crime ring leader could have led to his decision to exit on his 60th birthday.
“With election coming, it’s better if Khalid is not in the picture,” said Professor James Chin, director of Asia Institute at the University of Tasmania. “They would need someone who is not a magnet for controversy.”
A recent crackdown by Malaysia’s anti-graft agency on corruption within the police force has linked Mr Khalid to a vice ring leader in Melaka called Gopinathan Krishnan, also known as Gopi. Mr Khalid has admitted that he and his family knew Gopi personally but that he was unaware of the latter’s alleged illegal activities. Mr Khalid has not been implicated in any wrongdoing.
The police chief is also known for his brash statements in public and has used social media to issue warnings to Malaysians, a move that has drawn flak from activists who say it curbs free speech.
Entering the force at age 19 via the police training centre, Mr Khalid later received a law degree from the International Islamic University of Malaysia. His ascension within the force was gradual, and he has been seen by the public as being closely allied to the ruling Barisan Nasional government.
“Khalid is perceived to be helpful to the ruling coalition,” said Mr Wan Saiful Wan Jan, visiting senior fellow at the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute. He added: “But if his contract was extended it would raise a lot of criticisms against the government.”
