Police now face new challenges of extremism, says PM Najib

The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) and members of national security are currently facing the challenge of dealing with extremism and calamities that are very different, compared with before, Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak said.

He said enemies of the state are now more intelligent, cunning and unpredictable.

"Members of the security forces must always be a step ahead of them and be on standby, alert and ready to face any possible threat of terrorism," Najib said in his latest blog posting NajibRazak.com, today in conjunction with the 209th Police Day.

Containment and prevention is more important and effective, as the saying goes 'sudah terhantuk baru tengadah'. The government wants all Malaysians to be safe and protected at all times, he said.

"We see in the news and read in the papers about the terrorist groups and cells that have been overpowered and arrested by the Special Branch, the Special Action Force and other police personnel before they can strike, which can lead to destruction and loss of lives.

"These are all the results of detailed investigations and intelligence carried out by the police. In the climate of uncertainty in the world today, the government has taken various precautions, like placing policemen in areas where there are crowds and at tourist hotspots," said the prime minister.

The average Malaysians could continue life as usual because behind the scenes, the security forces and national intelligence are on the alert, always trying to deal with any threat, quickly and effectively, he said.

"They (police) are not doing all this to be praised. They risk their lives, day in and day out, just because they love the country and want to make it safe always.

"It is time for us Malaysians to appreciate the sacrifices they have made for the sake of our beloved homeland," Najib said.

Every year, Malaysia commemorates the police force, and this year is the 209th year Police Day celebrations, the prime minister added.

- Bernama