“Each new generation is reared by its predecessor; the latter must therefore improve in order to improve its successor. The movement is circular.”
– Emile Durkheim, French sociologist
THE recent appointment of Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail as Malaysia’s 15th Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has ignited a wave of online criticism, largely fuelled by the belief that the role should have gone instead to his deputy, Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.
This sentiment, echoed by bloggers, social media commentators and some members of the public, suggests that Ayob, by virtue of being second in command, was the most logical successor to the outgoing IGP, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.
But such thinking is simplistic. And, quite frankly, unfair.
Let us first be clear about the constitutional framework governing the appointment of the IGP. Under Clauses (4) and (5) of Article 140 of the Federal Constitution, the appointment is the sole prerogative of the King, exercised on the advice of the Prime Minister and the recommendation of the Police Force Commission.
The appointment of Mohd Khalid, therefore, is both legitimate and lawful, having received the King’s consent and the necessary institutional endorsements.
From the outset, speculation over Razarudin’s successor had narrowed to three strong contenders: the widely respected Ayob Khan; then Special Branch director Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid; and director of Internal Security and Public Order Datuk Seri Azmi Abu Kassim.
It is worth stressing that all three are capable, seasoned professionals. But only one could be chosen. That person, on a two-year contract effective June 23, 2025, is Mohd Khalid Ismail.
Critics who question Mohd Khalid’s qualifications may be unaware or have chosen to overlook his distinguished service record.
He joined the police force in 1987 and has spent the majority of his career in the Special Branch, the intelligence arm of the force. His career progression included stints as chief of Pahang Special Branch, chief assistant director at Bukit Aman, and a security liaison officer (SLO) at the Malaysian High Commission in London.
His rise within the intelligence community culminated in his appointment as Special Branch director on April 10, 2023, and after his official retirement on April 8 this year, his contract was extended due to the value of his leadership and institutional knowledge.
He is also academically accomplished, holding a Master’s in Comparative Laws and a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) from the International Islamic University Malaysia, along with a Diploma in Public Administration from UiTM.
Far from being a political appointee, Mohd Khalid is seen by those who know his work as an officer of integrity, discretion and strategic depth, a quiet professional who avoids the limelight but delivers results.
The reaction to Mohd Khalid’s appointment has revealed a troubling trend in public perception: a rigid belief that seniority should always dictate succession. The logic seems to be that once an individual is second in command, they are automatically “next in line”. But this is a flawed understanding, both in theory and practice.
Leadership roles, particularly at the highest levels, should never be reduced to mere rank or time served. They require a careful evaluation of capability, temperament, expertise, and the unique needs of the institution at a particular point in time.
There have been countless instances in both the public and private sectors where individuals of lower rank, yet better suited to the role, are chosen over more senior colleagues. In media organisations, government-linked companies (GLCs), and multinational corporations, it is not unusual for someone to leapfrog others to lead a department or division.
Often, the decision reflects a candidate’s sharper vision, better management instincts, or alignment with strategic goals. Therefore, to insist that the deputy IGP must automatically succeed the IGP upon retirement is to ignore the realities of leadership selection. It also undermines the authority of those entrusted by the Constitution to make such decisions.
Worse still are attempts by certain quarters to politicise Mohd Khalid’s appointment. An erroneous news article dated June 20 alleged political affiliations between the new IGP and PKR, casting doubts on his impartiality. PKR secretary-general Dr Fuziah Salleh has since strongly denied the claim, and the news outlet involved has been instructed to carry out an internal investigation.
Equally troubling are disparaging video clips circulating online, particularly by controversial figures like Wan Muhammad Azri Wan Deris, better known as Papagomo, who appear intent on stirring public discontent.
Such baseless accusations not only damage the morale of the police force but also undermine public trust in our institutions. Mohd Khalid’s record speaks for itself, and no amount of online vitriol should obscure the fact that his selection was made based on institutional trust, professional track record and constitutional process.
One must ask: Why is it so difficult for some Malaysians to accept that someone other than the perceived “heir apparent” may be better suited for a top job?
It is time we shed the outdated notion that promotion should flow strictly along seniority lines. That is not how leadership excellence is built. Instead, appointments, especially to roles as vital as the Inspector-General of Police, must be based on merit, readiness and what the organisation needs most at that moment.
The police force today is facing a credibility crisis in the eyes of the public. Scandals, corruption cases, and operational mishandling have, over the years, damaged public confidence. What it needs now is a steady, reform-minded leader who understands the security ecosystem and can restore the institution’s dignity and trust.
Mohd Khalid, with his intelligence background, international exposure and calm, disciplined leadership style, is arguably the right man for this moment.
To those disappointed that Ayob Khan did not get the role, let us be reminded that his contributions are far from over. He remains a vital figure in the force’s leadership and has a strong record that continues to inspire trust. But for now, the baton has been handed to someone deemed best suited to steer the ship. That decision deserves respect!
As Mohd Khalid begins his two-year term as IGP, let us give him space to prove his leadership. His challenge is not only to manage crime and public order but also to rebuild institutional integrity, increase transparency and modernise the force in line with current and emerging threats, including cybercrime, extremism and cross-border syndicates.
To this end, public support is crucial. The police are not above criticism, but criticism must be fair and grounded in fact and not fuelled by assumptions, partisanship or social media noise.
It is time we rise above petty politics and give credit where it is due. Let us judge the 15th IGP by his actions, his reforms and his results, not by misplaced expectations or outdated hierarchies.
In welcoming Mohd Khalid to the nation’s top policing post, let us also reaffirm our hope that his tenure will mark a turning point; one that will restore the public’s faith in law enforcement, uphold justice and keep Malaysia safe.
I wish him all the best in this monumental task. The majority of Malaysians, I believe, share my sentiment.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at rajlira@gmail.com