GEORGE TOWN – The call for non-Bumiputeras to join the police force is lauded as it is expected to contribute to the overall improvement and effectiveness in law enforcement, said criminologist and Universiti Sains Malaysia Assoc Prof (Hon) Datuk P. Sundramoorthy.

Welcoming Penang police chief Datuk Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain’s call for non-Bumiputeras to join the force, Sundramoorthy said diversity in the police force ensures that officers are prepared for cultural differences, especially in gender, ethnicity, and religion as they play significant roles in policing.

“Diversity in society must be celebrated. Diversity among law enforcement officers must not only be celebrated, but championed in order to establish trust and confidence between law enforcement and society at large.

“Last but not least, diversity will definitely contribute to overall improvement and effectiveness in law enforcement tasks.”

Earlier, Shuhaily called on minorities to consider a career with police as the force needs all the help it can muster to face future policing challenges, especially in handling cybercrime.

ang, terror, and extremist group activities; and looking over other issues related to crime and policing.

“Diversity helps identify the different ways people in the community communicate in different languages, body demeanours, symbols, and subtle conversational facial expressions.

“Besides hiring personnel from diverse backgrounds, especially in terms of gender, ethnicity, and tertiary qualifications, it is also important to provide diversity in class training. Diversity training will facilitate instilling sensitivity and understanding of fellow officers, people, and cultures in society,” Sundramoorthy said.

He added that police and other law enforcement agencies need to nurture trust and reduce trust deficit issues connected to the criminal justice system.

Shuhaily’s call came on Tuesday after presenting commendations to 137 Universiti Sains Malaysia graduates of the police undergraduate volunteer corps programme (Suksis) at the institution’s Dewan Budaya hall here.

There are now 3,999 Suksis members in 19 institutions of higher learning who, after undergoing three years of service and training, can apply to join the police force.

They will be given due consideration due to their stint in Suksis.

“I am overjoyed to see some Chinese men and women, as well as Indians joining Suksis. It is honourable to serve our nation,” Shuhaily said.

This article first appeared on The Vibes.