MALAYSIA’S top police officer has outlined artificial intelligence (AI) preparedness as a national security imperative, urging the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to modernise its approach amid the rapid evolution of digital threats and surveillance capabilities.
Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail, speaking during a special 2025 IG’s Update Meeting at Bukit Aman headquarters, said the advent of AI is reshaping the security landscape and demands a reimagining of policing strategies.
“The AI revolution has opened a new dimension in national security, triggering unprecedented challenges for PDRM, particularly in detection, intelligence gathering and law enforcement,” he said. “All departments and formations within the force are urged to strengthen existing capabilities and move in tandem with technological advancement.”
He identified five key focus areas as the foundation for ongoing police reform, aimed at fostering a more dynamic, progressive and integrity-driven force. AI readiness topped the list.
The high-level meeting, which lasted two hours, was also attended by Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and senior directors from across PDRM’s leadership ranks.
Mohd Khalid's remarks reflect a growing recognition within Malaysia’s security apparatus that traditional methods alone are insufficient in an age where cybercrime, predictive analytics and machine-led surveillance are increasingly part of criminal and counter-criminal tactics.
His call for transformation resonates with broader government ambitions to modernise national institutions under the MADANI agenda—where transparency, innovation and good governance are expected to underpin public service reform.
The IGP’s message was clear: adaptation is not optional. In an era shaped by machine learning and algorithmic threats, law enforcement must be equally sophisticated, agile and informed—or risk being left behind. - June 27, 2025
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