PRIME MINSTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has issued a stern warning to powerful individuals not to interfere with the Royal Malaysia Police as it steps up enforcement against large-scale criminal syndicates, declaring that any obstruction will not be tolerated under his administration.
Speaking at the 219th Police Day commemoration at Police Training Centre on Wednesday, the Prime Minister said past tendencies by influential parties to shield certain individuals had hampered enforcement efforts and undermined the rule of law.
“Let there be no interference obstructing actions by the Royal Malaysia Police and enforcement agencies. Sometimes, those providing protection are influential individuals. This makes the work of the police more difficult.
“I have issued a very clear directive: if we are truly committed to taking action, we must also advise all parties not to obstruct in any way,” he said.
He commended the police force for what he described as a more assertive and courageous approach in tackling long-standing criminal syndicates and high-level corruption cases that had previously appeared untouchable.
“I am grateful to see firmness and courage in action, not only against petty corruption but also against major corrupt figures who have operated with impunity for decades and were never previously confronted.
“These large illegal syndicates have long been embedded within our system, and I congratulate the police for successfully dismantling them through professionalism, determination, and courage,” he said.
Framing the effort within the government’s broader reform agenda, Anwar said the Madani governance approach would ensure that laws are no longer shaped or enforced to favour elites with power and wealth, but applied equitably across society.
He noted that growing public appreciation for the police reflects their continued role in preserving Malaysia’s standing as one of the world’s most peaceful nations despite evolving domestic and global security challenges.
The Prime Minister urged officers to sustain improvements in professionalism and integrity, stressing that national security remains the foundation upon which wider reforms can be built.
“Our duty is to honour past service and to set a new direction to enhance the professionalism and integrity of the police force.
“In any reform or transformation, the agenda must begin with the prerequisite of security. As citizens, we must express the highest appreciation for the service, sacrifice, and loyalty of the police, which has enabled Malaysia to be recognised as one of the most peaceful countries in the world,” he said.
Senior government leaders and top police officials were also in attendance at the ceremony, underscoring the administration’s unified stance in backing law enforcement efforts. - March 25, 2026
