Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan has emphasised the vital role of newly trained police officers in combating serious crime and ensuring public safety in line with public expectations.
Addressing graduates of the 41st Police Basic Training Programme, the Minister highlighted the government’s four-pillar national security policy, stressing that effective policing is not limited to law enforcement alone but must also foster a strong sense of security within communities.
Minister Ihusan outlined key national security priorities, including eliminating the drug epidemic, dismantling organised criminal gangs, addressing illegal immigration and protecting young people from criminal involvement. He urged officers to demonstrate full commitment to these objectives, stating that partial solutions would not deliver lasting results.
He also called for the strategic deployment of police personnel in high-risk areas, underscoring that safeguarding public safety is a shared national responsibility. The Minister further issued a firm warning against corruption, advising officers to reject bribery and all forms of unethical conduct.
During his address, Minister Ihusan announced plans to expand police services to more than 140 islands within the year. He revealed that 967 officers who previously lacked formal training have now completed their basic police training, with the remaining officers expected to join a new training batch in January.
Congratulating the graduates, the Minister noted a historic milestone for the police service, with the first female officer achieving the highest rank in the basic training programme, marking progress towards greater inclusivity and excellence within the force.