KUALA LUMPUR: Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar perceived the government’s decision to repeal certain acts and review the preventive laws as protecting the people’s interests and well-being.
He further noted that the decision also took into consideration the Malaysian situation as perceived by the international community.
According to him, the reviewing of obsolete and irrelevant laws especially on freedom of assembly and speech had already begun with deliberations initiated by the Home Affairs Minister.
“In the process, we will ensure that security and public order are the priority,” he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in his special message yesterday to mark Malaysia Day announced the repeal of the Internal Security Act (ISA) and formulation of two new laws.
Najib had said the new laws would be defined in the spirit and under the auspices of Article 149 of the Federal Constitution to prevent subversion, organised violence and criminal acts.
In his address, the PM also announced the repeal of the Banishment Act 1959 besides reviewing comprehensively the Restricted Residence Act 1933, Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 and Section 27 of the Police Act 1967.
Ismail said the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) was confident of fulfilling the aspirations of the PM in sustaining freedom of speech and assembly without compromising on the country’s security and public order.
“In this regard, I give the assurance that PDRM will continue to be committed in maintaining security and public order in accordance with the legal provisions we have,” he said. — Bernama