Home minister asks top cop to bring back regular press conferences

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has asked Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani to consider holding regular press conferences to allow media practitioners to receive the latest updates from the police.

He said he had received feedback from media practitioners on the absence of regular press conferences, which they said made it difficult for them to get the latest developments on cases investigated by the police.

"I have discussed and received views from the police (regarding this matter) and find that press conferences should be reinstated.

"I gave him (the IGP) the opportunity to consider the proposal and hope it can be implemented soon," he told reporters after an engagement session with the media in Putrajaya yesterday.

He said he hoped that regular press conferences would strengthen the relationship between the police and media practitioners as strategic partners of the police force.

Commenting on the use of body cameras for police officers, Saifuddin said the ministry’s procurement department was finalising the specifications.

"I believe the use of body cameras will increase the integrity of the police force, (help) gather evidence, and act as a reminder to them (police personnel) that they are being monitored," he said.

When asked about the dress code imposed on the public at police stations, Saifuddin said the matter had been resolved.

"I do not agree with the actions of police officers who prevent members of the public from making police reports (because of inappropriate attire). 

"On the other hand, the public must have a sense of decency when dealing officially with the police," he added.