KUCHING: The decision of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to promote all District Police Chiefs (KPD) in Sarawak from Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) to Superintendent of Police (SUPT) has been lauded by various parties.
Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (BERSATU) Sarawak information chief Alexander Frusis described the move as a well-deserved recognition of the significant responsibilities and challenges faced by senior police officers in maintaining safety and public order across the state.
“This promotion reflects rightful recognition of the immense duties and sacrifices shouldered by our senior officers in ensuring Sarawak remains safe and secure,” said Alexander in a statement.
He also praised Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Zainal Abdullah for his leadership and initiative in strengthening district-level security management.
“The Commissioner’s efforts to enhance leadership capacity at the district level are commendable.
“This step not only aligns Sarawak’s police structure with other states but also boosts operational effectiveness, especially in rural and border areas,” he added.
However, he stressed that the welfare of police personnel in Sarawak still requires urgent attention from the federal government.
“Many police quarters and district headquarters (IPD) across the state are in poor condition – old, unsafe, and unfit for officers and their families.
“This directly affects the morale and wellbeing of those who serve on the front lines of our state’s security,” he said.
He noted that the promotion of all KPDs to the rank of Superintendent also elevates their IPD status to Category B, which calls for corresponding infrastructure upgrades.
In view of this, BERSATU Sarawak urged the federal government, through the Home Ministry (KDN) and PDRM, to take three immediate actions: prepare a comprehensive recovery plan to repair and upgrade police quarters and aging IPD buildings in Sarawak; allocate additional special funding under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) to improve facilities for security personnel, particularly in rural districts; and conduct a detailed assessment to identify the most affected areas, including Limbang, Lawas, Kapit and Marudi, which face exceptional logistical and operational challenges.
“The strength of our security forces lies not only in their ranks and weapons, but also in their welfare.
“It is only fair that our PDRM officers in Sarawak enjoy facilities that match the magnitude of their service and sacrifice,” he said.
He reaffirmed BERSATU Sarawak’s commitment to continue fighting for the welfare of security personnel and ensuring their voices are heard at the national level.
“BERSATU Sarawak will continue to advocate for our police officers’ wellbeing and push for meaningful reforms that reflect their invaluable role in maintaining peace and stability,” Frusis said.
