KUALA LUMPUR: The police force has been instrumental in lessening the burden of the Malaysian Family during the Covid-19 pandemic over the past two years, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

       The Prime Minister said he appreciated the role played by the police as frontliners during such trying times.

       "While most of the strength of the police force were deployed for Covid-19 operations, the police were still committed in balancing the priorities of fighting crime and preserving the national harmony and public order.

       "The government is thankful to all police personnel who were willing to forsake personal interests and risk their own lives during the pandemic," he said in his speech during the 215th Police Day celebrations at the Police Training Centre (Pulapol) on Friday (March 25).

       The Prime Minister also saluted the police force for reducing the crime index last year.

       "I was informed that the crime index for last year was 52,974 cases compared to 65,623 in 2020.

       "For the first four months this year, the crime index also showed a reduction, with 8,484 cases compared to 9,773 cases during the same period last year," he said.

       The Prime Minister congratulated the police for maintaining their excellent performance in reducing the crime index, proving its credibility in ensuring safety and security.

       "With the police force reaching its 215th anniversary, all the experiences faced by the police force has made it the main enforcement agency, which is committed in fulfilling its mandate and responsibility," he said.

       Ismail Sabri said the government was aware that policing has become more complex, especially with the emergence of new technology and social media applications that have been abused by criminals.

       "Everyone demands that the police curb such complex crimes firmly and in a strategic manner to ensure safety and public order.

       "The government is satisfied with the level of professionalism and preparedness shown by police personnel in fulfilling their duties especially in curbing militant threats," he said.

       In the context of preserving the nation's peace and harmony, Ismail Ismail Sabri said the burden should not be solely placed on the shoulders of the police

       "I urge everyone to work hand in hand with the police to reduce crimes and curb efforts that could threatened the nation's sovereignty and public order.

       "Let us appreciate the Malaysian Family concept which focuses on inclusivity, common ground and contentment.

       "This concept has brought a lot of benefits in various aspects and proves the government's intent in ensuring the welfare of all," he said.

       The government is attentive towards the needs of the police force in enhancing its capabilities to face and curb crimes as matters of security should not be taken lightly, Ismail Sabri added.