THE police are not receptive to the idea of an independent police complaints and misconduct commission (IPCMC) because they are unclear about its role and function, Home Affairs Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said yesterday.

They have misinterpreted the objectives of the IPCMC, he said. 

“For instance, they (police) are of the view that policemen will become targets of probe into offences and we are out to punish them,” he said, in an interview in conjunction with Pakatan Harapan’s first anniversary.

“This is not true.”

To correct the misconceptions, Muhyiddin said he has enlisted director-general of the Governance, Integrity and Anti-Corruption Centre (GIACC) Abu Kassim Mohamed to hold a briefing session on the task and function of the proposed IPCMC for the police force.

The former Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission chief is tasked with clearing up any confusion by explaining the purpose of the IPCMC.

Muhyiddin said once this is resolved, he will discuss the next step with the cabinet.

“We are certain about the need for an IPCMC. However, we will need more time to engage with police personnel of various rankings.”

Yesterday, outgoing Inspector-General of Police Mohamad Fuzi Harun said senior police officers had rejected the suggestion that an independent body be placed in charge of police discipline.

Fuzi said the idea was rejected by serving and retired police officers at a recent meeting.

The force has registered its objection via a memo to the Prime Minister’s Department.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said the government will consider public opinion before deciding whether to set up such a body.

Dr Mahathir said this was because the government was aware there were differing views on the issue. – May 3, 2019.